Community Focus - Disability Volunteers training and working with Young People

Volunteers in Lanarkshire trained up to deliver Soft Archery

This month, Robert successfully delivered Soft Archery Leaders Award training to five dedicated volunteers from South Lanarkshire Disability Sport (SLDS).  SLDS is a voluntary organisation with a responsibility to promote interest and participation in sport for people with disabilities within South Lanarkshire.

SLDS is a member branch of Scottish Disability Sport (SDS) who are the governing body of sport for athletes and players with a physical, sensory or learning disability. Membership of SLDS is open and free to any South Lanarkshire school, club or individual.

These individuals generously give their time every Friday evening to lead a multi-sport drop-in session at the Alistair McCoist Centre, helping to create inclusive, engaging opportunities for young people of all abilities.

It is great that soft archery will now be part of their activity programme as well as established links now been formed with East Kilbride Archery Club.

Youngsters in Ayrshire coming together through archery

More recently, Robert successfully delivered a Soft Archery taster session to 12 young people as part of Scottish Sport Futures' (SSF) Twilight Session at St Matthew’s Academy in Saltcoats, North Ayrshire.  Held every Friday evening, this vibrant drop-in youth group offers a safe and welcoming space where participants can try out new sports, build friendships, and enjoy some food—all while having fun and staying active.

SSF use sport as a catalyst to enable young people to be healthier, more confident and more resilient, so they are better prepared to combat the effects of poverty, trauma and adversity.   Their SSF Twilight programme provides sport and physical activity sessions throughout Scotland for those aged 11-25.  It is delivered at a time when anti-social behaviour may occur and provides positive activity in the heart of communities for young people to attend free of charge.

It was great to work with such an enthusiastic group of young people and we are looking forward in continuing to work with SSF in the future.  Thanks to the staff for reaching out to us for this opportunity.

Is your school, charity, local authority or organisation looking for some support or training?  Feel free to get in touch with Robert directly at robert.clark@scottisharchery.org.uk