CHILDREN, young people and families have been inspired to get active after the easing of lockdown restrictions.

Disability4Sport, in partnership with Active Essex and Essex County Council, offered free holiday activity clubs at PlayFootball Colchester.

Qualified coaches and volunteers gave everyone an opportunity to take part in a range of sporting activities and games, including American football, multi-sport Olympics, volleyball and football.

Rhys Commins, coach development officer at Disability4Sport, said: “Disabilty4Sport was passionate about creating an inclusive youth sports camp in light of the easing of the restrictions.

“The camp allowed young people of all abilities to come together and get active, learn and develop new skills and transfer those skills into team-building games.

“The coaches were particularly impressed by the way the children came up with their own mini games and challenges, working as a creative group and producing great activities.

Fun and games - youngsters enjoyed a Disability4Sport Easter camp at PlayFootball Colchester

Fun and games - youngsters enjoyed a Disability4Sport Easter camp at PlayFootball Colchester

“Many children came into the camps on the first day feeling anxious and uncertain.

“However, after a warm welcome and encouragement, they relaxed, took part and left on the last day with big smiles and wanting to come back again.”

The holiday activity club was targeted at school children with special educational needs and disabilities and those on pupil premium or needing additional support due to the coronavirus.

Each day included a free healthy lunch from Jolls Rolls Deli, in Braintree, and recipe food packs for families from Colchester and Tendring.

Lorraine Turnbull, a parent whose daughter attended, said: “My daughter had a brilliant time and the club was great for her confidence and self-esteem.

“She came home buzzing every day.”

Fun and games - youngsters enjoyed a Disability4Sport Easter camp at PlayFootball Colchester

Fun and games - youngsters enjoyed a Disability4Sport Easter camp at PlayFootball Colchester

As part of the Reboot Your Life – and Feel Good campaign, Disability4Sport offers inclusive activities that promote a level playing field and positive experiences for disabled people.

Disability4Sport director Abigail Saxon said: “Lockdown has been particularly difficult for people with disabilities, especially around keeping active and feeling happy.

“The business has struggled financially over the last year so we are asking the community to support our new pay it forward scheme. Our shareholders are the members and families we support and all profit goes back into the community."

A summer half-term waiting list for holiday activity clubs is now open for new members.

Head HERE and select team Youth Holiday Activities Colchester.

Fun and games - youngsters enjoyed a Disability4Sport Easter camp at PlayFootball Colchester

Fun and games - youngsters enjoyed a Disability4Sport Easter camp at PlayFootball Colchester

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