What is the programme?

Hi5! Sports is for young adults aged 16+ who have special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in B&NES. The programme has been specially designed by our inclusion coaches using a variety of sports and activities to develop fundamental movements, such as agility, balance and coordination as well as giving participants a safe, fun environment to work on their health and fitness. Our sessions run weekly during term time, giving participants the opportunity to try a variety of new sports and activities with expert guidance along the way, via our coaches and guest coaches from local organisations and clubs. 

What is the need for this programme in the community?

Children and young people with disabilities are more likely to be obese than children without disabilities and this risk increases with age, this is often due to unusual dietary patterns and fewer opportunities to engage in physical activity. Finding a sport for you or your family member to enjoy can be a struggle – with few opportunities to just come along and give it a try.

Hi5! Sports not only tackles obesity, increases physical activity and fitness but also helps those with disabilities to make friends and breaks down barriers to social inclusion, preventing isolation and increasing overall health, both physically and mentally.

Project Outcomes

Hi5! Sports provides opportunities to young people with disabilities, giving them the chance to be involved in and play a variety of different sports and activities, where they may not have elsewhere. Hi5! Sport sessions are inclusive for our participants and provide the chance to become physically active, healthy and fitter in a safe space and environment. Hi5! Sports also provides the social opportunities for participants to meet others and make friends, whilst trying new things and learning life and social skills. With the impact of COVID-19 and a change to daily structure offering less opportunities for social inclusion and physical activities, Hi5! Sport has been a constant and secure place for our young people, ensuring they develop and learn the correct tools and skills needed to tackle barriers they may face in their day to day lives. 

How to get involved

Hi5! programmes run throughout the week during term time. Hi5! Sports runs on a Monday evening, 5.30pm – 6.30pm, and is open to people with physical and learning disabilities, ages 16+. To join, please email our inclusion officer [email protected]