Initiative promotes physical activity among unemployed

AN Initiative has been launched by Limerick city and county Local Sports Partnerships to promote participation among the unemployed in sporting facilities. First piloted in 2009, Link2BActive is an initiative of South Dublin County Sports Partnership encouraging people to use local recreational facilities where numbers are falling. “Being unemployed is a very frustrating experience,” said Phelim Macken, Sports Co-ordinator with County Limerick Sports Partnership.

“It can drain individuals of energy and affect their physical and mental health.
“We all know the importance of keeping our mind and body active, but in a time of emotional and financial stress the cost of doing this can be a barrier”.
Through this initiative 25 local sports facilities are offering individuals the opportunity to use their facilities from under €1 per day.
“We asked local sports providers to come up with an offer, complete with terms and conditions, for the use of their facilities by unemployed persons,” Mr Macken continued.
“We have printed promotional flyers containing information about the programme and these will be distributed through social welfare offices, general practitioners’ services, community centres and libraries across Limerick to inform unemployed people about the programme”.