2023-08-22 13:53:37
Hft receives Sport England grant towards yoga equipment
A residency supported by learning disability charity Hft has received a Lottery Award grant, thanks to Sport England’s Small Grants Programme, of £1,817 to fund yoga equipment that will be used for weekly yoga sessions.
Research suggests that, when presented in a safe and accessible way, yoga has significant benefits for adults with autism. It can be used to improve mental health as well as proprioception – an awareness of the body and where it is in relation to its environment – which is something people with autism can have difficulty with.
These proven benefits are exactly why residents of Hft’s supported living service in Bristol are thrilled to be receiving funding from Sport England to purchase yoga equipment.
The Bristol residents have shown a great interest in practising yoga in the past, mentioning it multiple times to their support worker who just so happens to be a trained yoga teacher. They all agreed that being able to offer an activity which promotes mindfulness and a non-competitive approach to exercise could have an incredible impact on the atmosphere of the space.
This prompted them to make the initial request for funding towards yoga equipment at the start of January this year, and they are now fortunate enough to have been awarded the Sport England grant.
Lindsay Games, Strategic Lead for Disability and Equality at Sport England says, “Sport England’s mission is to make sure that everyone – regardless of their background, bank balance, gender or where they live – has the opportunity to get active.
“We want to break down the barriers that stop some groups – like disabled people – living more active lives, and are delighted that our funding will help provide quality equipment for people with learning disabilities to help boost activity.”
Lauren Fields, Community Fundraising Officer at Hft, helped the residents secure the grant. She says:
“Introducing this incredible activity to the space will bring such a calming and peaceful atmosphere. There are different physical abilities in this residency so the funding is going to enable everyone to participate no matter their physical ability.
“The purchase of yoga props such as blocks, chairs and belts will enable people to get into postures with extra support and can offer an alternative posture but with the same health benefits. All of the residents will have access to a yoga mat and props, making the practice accessible to everyone.
“The wonderful thing about getting funding for the project is that it is a one-time purchase of yoga equipment for a lifetime’s worth of use for all residents present and future.”
Notes to editors
For further information please email media.enquiries@hft.org.uk
About Hft
Proudly established in 1962 by a group of visionary parents, Hft is a charity supporting more than 2,500 learning disabled adults in England and Wales. Together, we are creating a future where learning disabled people and their families can live the best life possible.
Providing personalised support. Creating solutions for living independently. Coming together to campaign for positive change. Fundraising for new opportunities and a bigger impact.
In 2033, we’ll live in a world where learning disabled people have greater choice. About where they live. The support they need and want. And how to spend their time and money.
Learning disability versus difficulty
A learning disability is different from a learning difficulty but the terms are often confused and used inter-changeably. A learning difficulty does not affect general intellect, whereas a learning disability is a life-long condition characterised by a reduced intellectual ability and struggle with everyday activities.
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For more information about Hft please visit www.hft.org.uk
