image source, active oxfordshire
A charity promoting physical activity has received £1.3 million to further its work.
Active Oxfordshire will use the funding to expand its existing activity provision, increase active travel opportunities and launch a program for young children.
The funding was provided by Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and West Berkshire Integrated Care Board, Oxfordshire County Council, City Council and District Council.
Donations will be made to more than 16,000 Oxfordshire residents.
CEO Josh Renthall said the investment was a landmark moment in the charity’s work to get people more active.
image source, active oxfordshire
He added: “Barriers such as cost, access to appropriate equipment, and inequality can limit a person’s ability to lead an active lifestyle.
“This record investment from our local partners means we can begin to remove these barriers by expanding existing programs and introducing new schemes for future generations.
“Our research has demonstrated that Oxfordshire is particularly vulnerable to large inequality gaps and, in our view, there is no place in society as it is today.
“Access to active travel routes, expert guidance from health experts, and opportunities for quality physical activity should not be a luxury.”
Care Commissioner Daniel Leveson said the expansion of services “means the provision of a whole new range of physical activities in early years, allowing the county’s youngest generation to benefit from a positive start in life.” said.
The charity said it would also work with maternity services to increase activity levels for pregnant women.
Active Oxfordshire said that while half of children in the county met recommended activity levels, more than one in three sixth form pupils were overweight or obese.
Additionally, around 10% of children in one of the priority areas are able to swim after leaving primary school, compared to 80% in the most affluent areas.
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