Council helps Newtownabbey residents with health conditions get MORE active

Thanks to £12,000 funding from Sport Northern Ireland and Northern Healthy Lifestyles Partnership, Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council has expanded its online offering of leisure classes to help residents with specific health conditions.
By The Newsroom
Published 30th Apr 2021, 16:52 BST
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The Physical Activity Referral Scheme (PARS) targets those with weight problems as well as pulmonary, cardiac and other health conditions.

The scheme is a free 12-week fitness programme which offers a positive introduction to getting more active. It is designed to help participants develop the knowledge, skills and confidence they need to improve their health and wellbeing and includes a health and fitness consultation, virtual live sessions, an exercise planner and programme.

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Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Cllr Jim Montgomery commented: “I am delighted we have been able to move these services online. This scheme is a great way for us to reach out to those that need us most and by providing it digitally we can ensure these much-needed services continue whilst restrictions are in place.”

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The Physical Activity Referral Scheme (PARS) targets those with weight problems as well as pulmonary, cardiac and other health conditions. (Pic supplied by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council).The Physical Activity Referral Scheme (PARS) targets those with weight problems as well as pulmonary, cardiac and other health conditions. (Pic supplied by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council).
The Physical Activity Referral Scheme (PARS) targets those with weight problems as well as pulmonary, cardiac and other health conditions. (Pic supplied by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council).

Ann Lake who is taking part in the PARS programme added: “I was referred to the scheme as I have musculoskeletal and knee problems and I’m hoping to improve my flexibility and general fitness.

“I think the programme is amazing and extremely motivating – I even put the classes on a projector screen! It is a fantastic programme and I hope it continues.

“Having this during lockdown has been so good and we have had great follow ups with the leisure staff throughout.”

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Anyone wishing to avail of the programme is advised that they must be referred onto the scheme by a GP or health professional. For more information on PARS, email more@ antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk

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