A Sheffield based health and fitness facility has received an award in recognition of its commitment to catering for the needs of disabled people.
The gym at the English Institute of Sport – Sheffield (EIS Sheffield) has achieved the prestigious IFI (Inclusive Fitness Initiative) Mark Accreditation.
It follows an investment in new facilities for disabled users including a unisex accessible changing area, inclusive fitness equipment and additional disability specific training for staff.
EIS Sheffield has been presented with an IFI plaque and customer charter in recognition of its achievement. Staff and members will celebrate the accreditation with an event to mark Inclusive Fitness Week 2010, which is taking place from May 3-9 2010.
Dawn Spink, Fitness Manager at EIS Sheffield, which is operated by Sheffield International Venue (SIV), said: "This is a fantastic achievement for the gym and EIS Sheffield as a whole and we are delighted to have achieved the IFI award.The venue is an official Olympic and Paralympic training ground and this accreditation demonstrates our ongoing commitment to providing inclusive community facilities for all."
EIS Sheffield is home to scores of Paralympic competitors and support staff including GB’s boccia team, some of the GB wheelchair basketball team and GB table tennis players Sue Gilroy and Farrel Anthony. The venue also stages disability events such as wheelchair rugby, basketball and handball.
Dawn added: "At the heart of SIV is making health and fitness accessible to all to increase participation in physical activity. The investment in IFI Mark Accredited facilities is part of our drive to ensure more disabled groups and users can enjoy exercise."
Gym membership at EIS Sheffield offers free access to the spa and relaxation area, badminton courts and table tennis courts, plus tickets to watch the Sheffield Sharks.
Member David Shaw, of Crookes, Sheffield, said: "The gym is a fantastic place to train and all the staff are extremely helpful. The improvements to the gym have made the facilities even more inclusive."
For more information about joining call 0114 223 5616 or visit the EIS Sheffield Website.
