As a commitment to help promote physical activity and reduce the incidence of lifestyle related disease, NHS Western Isles today (Monday) presented Western Isles Councils Sport and Leisure Department with a cheque for £236,000.
The Board recently approved capital grants for the upgrade of equipment in Ionad Spòrs Leòdhais in Stornoway, Lionacleit Fitness Suite in Benbecula and Castlebay Fitness Suite in Barra.
The Sports Centres work closely with NHS Western Isles to support a range of targeted initiatives including the ‘Well North’ programme and ‘Healthy Weight’ scheme (see details below) and the funding will further enhance these services and allow them to expand and develop.
NHS Western Isles Chief Executive Gordon Jamieson told Hebrides news Today: “A major aim of the health board is health improvement, health promotion and illness prevention. We are delighted to be able to support our local fitness suites by funding new equipment. Castlebay Fitness Suite will receive £61,000, and Ionad Spòrs Leòdhais and Lionacleit Fitness Suite will receive £175,000.”
He added: “There is a clear link between increased physical activity and the reduction in the incidence of heart disease, hypertension and diabetes. The significant benefits in terms of mental health are also well documented. The investment in these facilities will increase the capacity of the sports centres and allow them to continue to widen access to both the public and patients.”
Councillor Archie Campbell, Chair of the Comhairle’s Sustainable Development Committee said: “I warmly welcome the news of the significant funding which has been received from NHS nan Eilean Siar to Comhairle nan Eilean Siar for the purchase of gym equipment. Through the Slàinte Mhath initiative we have seen a huge increase in the amount of people using Comhairle facilities across the islands and this key investment will greatly help in expanding the service to the whole community. As organisations we have the same goals; to get people more active and improve their general health and wellbeing. I look forward to further joint working between the Health Board and the Comhairle in the future.”
Funding for equipment in Castlebay and Lionacleit in particular will have a positive impact on those individuals who cannot easily access the main sports centres, as well as providing equity of access.
The equipment will be replaced during May and June 2010.
Hebrides Today brings you the latest news from the Western Isles
