Three of Merton’s Special Educational Needs (SEN) Schools will benefit from a free, in-school and holiday activity programme from The Tim Henman Foundation (THF) – a charity which works to transform the lives of young people through sport and education, set up by the former Wimbledon tennis star.
The Inclusive Activity Programme, designed for young people with SEN or physical disabilities, will run for two years. It will deliver weekly adapted exercise sessions with students, upskill teachers and in-school coaches, and provide regular mentoring with ex-paralympic athlete Louise Hunt.
The partnership is part of Merton’s ambition to become London Borough of Sport, and make sure that everyone in the borough, no matter their background, has the opportunity to be active and access sport and physical activity.
Councillor Caroline Cooper Marbiah, Cabinet Member for Sport and Heritage says: “Borough of Sport is for everyone, so I’m delighted that the Tim Henman Foundation is working in three of our SEN schools. This programme will help young people who may face additional and more complex barriers to getting active to feel the benefit and the power of sport.
“This is just one of the many exciting partnerships we have fostered during the first year of our journey to put Merton on the map for sport.”
Feedback from THF’s Inclusive Activity Programmes shows that 80% of young participants exercise more after taking part in the programme, and 76% feel happier and fitter because of the programme.
With adapted and exclusive exercise traditionally costing up to 6.5x more than standard provision, the programme also helps take the financial barrier away from families during the cost of living crisis.
Tim Henman, Tennis star and founder of the Tim Henman Foundation: “We are thrilled to be working in partnership with Merton on their mission to become London’s Borough of Sport. We have worked in the area for many years and now we will be able to support even more children into regular activity”.
Jamie Feaver, CEO of The Tim Henman Foundation says: “We want to say a massive thank you to London Borough of Merton for matching the funding we are bringing to the borough.
“Our Inclusive Activity Programme will create free, accessible and inclusive sessions for youngsters with special educational needs and disabilities. This programme will break down barriers and create regular opportunities for these youngsters which will not only improve their physical health but also their mental health”.