A sports club that prides itself on its inclusivity plans to boost their offering to members who are disadvantaged or disabled.
Pembrokeshire based Strength Academy Wales (SAW) revealed the move after receiving the InSport Ribbon Standard from Angela Miles, Disability Sports Development officer for Pembrokeshire County Council.
The Ribbon Standard is the first of four InSport standards offered by Disability Sport Wales.
Disability Sport Wales’ aim is ‘Transforming Lives through the Power of Sport’ and SAW believe they are doing that.
Just under half of the clubs members are from disadvantaged backgrounds with evidence proving members are more confident and socially aware since joining one of their programmes.
SAW director, Simon Roach, a founding member of the Academy who has dedicated his life to the sport said:
“We’re delighted to have achieved the Ribbon standard.
“Our aim is to encourage more individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds to access the facility and benefit from the positive experiences which so many have gained over the years.
“It doesn’t matter where you come from or what you do, we offer a supportive environment for everyone and we’re proud of having a track record of changing attitudes and perceptions.
“Our members are improving their overall health and mental well-being by coming here and that means a lot to us.”
Simon and head coach Justin Head are joined by a workforce of around 20 volunteers and the club now aims to achieve the Bronze Silver and Gold standards by the end of the year.
“We have been working in partnership with Strength Academy Wales on their InSport journey and delighted that they have now achieved the InSport Ribbon award for their commitment to inclusion,” said Angela Miles.
“The club is welcoming and inclusive with many of the required standards already in place for achieving more accreditation and I look forward to working with them to ensure they achieve this for the work they are doing with disabled and disadvantaged people.”
Pictured are Angela Miles and Simon Roach with members of Strength Academy Wales