Comhairle good health initiative

Comhairle nan Eilean Siar is encouraging people in the Western Isles to kick start 2010 with a new healthy and active lifestyle.

Following the over indulgences of the Festive period, January is the month often associated with a change in lifestyle and the Comhairle have chosen the month to launch their new scheme designed to encourage the use of Sports Centres from the Butt to Barra.

The ‘Slàinte Mhath’ (‘Good Health’) initiative is a Council funded-scheme which will mean that a family can pay £20 a month for unlimited use of all sport centre facilities whilst it will be £15 for individuals to take part in the scheme.

There will also be concessionary rates for those on benefits.

The scheme, which will come into operation in January 2010, will operate on payment by Direct Debit and all users will need a ‘smartcard’ to access the scheme.

For those aged between 11 and 25 their ‘Young Scot’ card can be used for access whilst the over 60’s can use their National Entitlement card.

Those in the age bracket in between 26-59 should contact their local sports centre to join the scheme.

A Council application form and a Direct Debit mandate will be available from Sports Centres across the Islands from January onwards.

Chair of Sustainable Development Committee, Councillor Archie Campbell said:

“I am delighted that this scheme is ready to be launched.  The Comhairle has invested a substantial amount into the islands’ sports facilities and the next step is for us to increase the amount of people making use of them.

We are all aware of the benefits of regular exercise to our general health and well being and the fact that it is now better value to make use of the sports centre facilities in the Islands will hopefully attract more people to make use of them and improve their health.

I wish the scheme every success”

The scheme has also been endorsed by Liz McColgan who, amongst other achievements, won gold in the 1991 World Championship 10,000m and in 1996 was the worthy recipient of the gold medal in the London Marathon:

“I think it is fantastic that the Western Isles are leading the way with the introduction of cheaper access for families and individuals to council sports facilities across the islands.

As a nation we are seeing fewer kids involved in sports and the best way to encourage them to be fit and healthy starts at home.

This initiative is a great way to encourage the entire family to exercise.

I would love to see councils introduce schemes like this across the country.  Well done to the Western Isles for leading the way.

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