Disability Sports Group Seeks Volunteers Amidst Growth

Due to its significant popularity, Together We Can Do, a sports and exercise group for disabled adults in Blackpool, is seeking additional volunteers. The organization, which currently conducts sessions at Blackpool Sports Centre, has seen its membership increase from merely eight individuals in 2021 to over 160. This charity, now also providing sessions in Fylde and Wyre, aims to broaden its reach to serve a larger population. Co-founder Jenny Morris stated, “The members get so much out of it.” The initiative initially commenced as Zoom meetings during the pandemic lockdowns, with organizers noting that the disabled community was “hit hard.” Following its establishment as a charity in November 2020, in-person activities began in May 2021 once restrictions were eased. Project manager Joanne Martin articulated, “Our main aims are to get disabled adults into sports and social activities and get them participating on a regular basis.” She added, “We have been lucky enough to secure funding from the National Lottery Community Fund, which is a five-year funding programme.” Ms. Martin indicated that these funds would enable the charity to “expand its operation in terms of the types of sport on offer and the communities we can reach.” She further commented, “We are hoping to reach a wider audience over the next five years.” Lee Campbell, a consistent participant in the sessions, shared that the group has assisted him in forming an extensive network of friends. He stated, “I love meeting new friends here and playing football,” and added, “I like getting out of the house.” His father, Joe Campbell, noted that the sessions had enhanced Lee’s confidence, describing it as “a big breakthrough for him.” Christopher Morris reported that the sessions provided him with “confidence and focus,” while Joanne Quinnell, a netball player, expressed that they instilled in her a feeling of “achieving something.” Jenny Parker, another attendee, remarked: “It is very important that people with disabilities can go places.” She continued, “We are all friends together and we all enjoy it.” For more content, listeners can access the best of BBC Radio Lancashire on Sounds and connect with BBC Lancashire on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story suggestions can also be submitted to northwest.newsonline@bbc.co.uk or via Whatsapp at 0808 100 2230. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.