A new health and fitness programme targeting teenagers across the North Down area has been launched with support from Power NI.
Through the company’s ‘Brighter Communities’, the Northern Community Leisure Trust has received one thousand pounds to introduce ‘Move Together Teen Health and Fitness’.
Aimed at young people aged between twelve and fifteen, the not-for-profit charity – which operates out of two facilities in Bangor, and a third in Holywood – is going to run an eight-week, free-to-access health workshop and fun, structured physical activity sessions.
Delivered in partnership with the North Down Community Network, the programme not only aims to build fitness, but improve mental wellbeing and grow self-confidence levels.
Power NI
Those behind ‘Move Together Teen Health and Fitness’ also hope the series of workshops can help break down barriers that often stop teenagers participating in sport and leisure.
Will Carson – the current Sports Development & Health Manager at Northern Community Leisure Trust – said: “Working with the local community – especially the young people – is hugely important to us. ‘Move Together’ is going to give young people the opportunity to exercise together, learn about healthy living, and build confidence in a welcoming and safe environment. We want to make healthy habits fun – and accessible – for everyone.”
The project has been designed to address real challenges facing young people, including anxiety, obesity, poor diet, and the rise in vaping which is currently 15% of young people in Northern Ireland, according to new research published by the Public Health Agency. It also offers a safe, supportive space where teenagers can build positive, lifelong habits.
Each week, ‘Move Together’ participants will take part in a short health workshop covering topics such as body image, healthy lifestyle choices, and mental wellbeing. This will be followed by a group activity session that is designed to make exercise fun and enjoyable.
Thanks to the funding from Power NI, every single participant will also receive a free youth membership for the full eight weeks, helping to ease financial pressure on local families.
Ashleigh O’Neill, the Senior Marketing and Communications Executive at Power NI, said: “Our Brighter Communities initiative is all about supporting local projects that make a real difference. This is a programme that will give young people the tools to feel healthier, happier, and more confident at a crucial stage in their lives. We are proud to support it.”
