INDIVIDUALS and organisations are being offered a special training course to help them take the first steps to organising sports and physical activities for disabled youngsters.

The Inclusive Community Training Programme is part of the Sainsbury’s and Sport England Active Kids For All initiative supported by the National Lottery.

The course, which is being run by Hartlepool Council’s Sport and Recreation Team and Tees Valley Sport, takes place on Thursday, March 12 from 10am to 1pm at Brierton Sports Centre in Catcote Road and places cost £10 per person.

Rachael Graham, the Council’s sport and physical activity officer, said: “Building on the inspiration of the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympics, Active Kids For All aims to encourage a wide range of community groups to create more opportunities for disabled children to enjoy sport.

“The course will give people a grounding in the basic requirements and help give them the support, encouragement and inspiration to organise some really rewarding activities.”

The course is aimed at parents, carers, support workers, healthcare professionals, volunteers and community groups and organisations helping disabled people of all ages.

The training, which is supported by online resources, will help them to learn about the practical side of running courses and explore creative ideas and opportunities for helping disabled people to take part in physical activity and sport.

Participants will also complete a workbook which will help them in organising their future activity sessions.

For more information or to book a place, contact Rachael Graham on 01429-284414 or email rachael.graham@hartlepool.gov.uk