Stirchley Recreation Centre is opening a newly adapted fitness suite to encourage disabled people to keep fit. The fitness centre has been awarded accreditation from the ‘Inclusive Fitness Initiative’ and is the first gym in Shropshire to be awarded IFI Mark Accreditation.
The Recreation Centre has been adapted for disabled people and now includes fitness equipment which makes it easier for everyone to enjoy a full workout.
Treadmills have been adapted with ‘tactile signage’ which makes them easier for people with visual impairments to use and a Power Plate (a multi exercise vibration plate which can be used to tone, strengthen and rehabilitate) has been installed. Changing rooms, lighting and doors have also been specially adapted and the layout of the fitness suite improved to allow extra space for wheelchair users. A new upper body machine has also been added to the gym , which is ideal for wheelchair users.
Cllr Miles Hosken, Cabinet Member for Leisure, said: “The message is simple, if you have a disability and want to exercise, Stirchley Recreation Centre has the equipment that will meet your needs. It doesn’t matter if you have never even been to a gym before as we have adapted equipment which will help disabled people maintain their fitness or get in shape. The new facility supports the council’s newly launched ‘buddy leisure scheme’ which has been set up to encourage disabled people to join in leisure activities.”
’Aspirations’ gym member, Richard Moss uses a wheelchair and has worked with the council to help adapt Stirchley Recreation Centre. Richard says: “The facilities at Stirchley Recreation Centre are much better because they are really suited for disabled people and will help people get more enthusiastic about exercise.’’
Council leisure facilities already comply with the national disability discrimination act (DDA) however the new fitness equipment at Stirchley Recreation Centre goes above and beyond these requirements. It’s hoped future facilities across Telford and Wrekin will be awarded IFI Mark Accreditation.
The council’s Social Inclusion Fund and NHS Telford and Wrekin have funded the equipment and building work.
The council recently launched the ‘Inclusive Leisure Scheme’ and is looking for volunteers to become ‘buddies’ to help motivate others to join in physical exercise. As part of the scheme, volunteers or ‘buddies’ are being recruited to help disabled adults take part in a range of leisure activities. Residents interested in becoming a ‘buddy’ can call 01952 382603 or email here
