Free activity packs to help vulnerable and isolated children given to 400 Northumberland households

The Active Partnership for Northumberland and Tyne and Wear have teamed up with Northumberland County Council to deliver physical activity packs containing a variety of items for creating indoor and outdoor games and activities to those families which are most in need of extra support.

Lee Sprudd, strategic director for the Active Partnership said: “With schools being closed, children may not be getting the opportunities to be active that they are used to, and families are having to spend much greater periods of time together, uncertain of how best to fill that time.

“We know that keeping active is a benefit to not only our physical health, but also our mental well-being. We hope therefore that these packs will give children who are most in need of support with the means to have fun and stay active.”

The packs contain a variety of items such as bean bags, rackets, skipping rope and soft balls, ideal for creating indoor and outdoor games. Funding for these has been provided by Sport England and the National Lottery.

Coun Cath Homer, cabinet member with responsibility for leisure, said: “The coronavirus pandemic is clearly having an impact on everyone’s physical and mental health, and this can be a particularly challenging time for disadvantaged families and children with complex needs.

“Exercise plays a crucial role in raising mood and I am confident that these packs will help to create fun games that can be enjoyed by the whole family.”

Coun Wayne Daley, cabinet member with responsibility for children’s services, added: “I am sure these packs will be well received by the young people and we hope they provide a bit of enjoyment for them during this difficult time, while also contributing to the many benefits that we know physical activity brings.”

If any resident is struggling to cope with the coronavirus pandemic we would encourage them to call Northumberland Communities Together to be connected to the local support networks available. 01670 620 015.

For more information about tackling inactivity in Northumberland, visit www.moreactiveforlife.co.uk

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