A NEW group has been set up in Plymouth to help build on the number of physical activity opportunities for people with disabilities.

Inclusive Sport Plymouth (ISP) will work to support more disabled people in the city to take part in sport and exercise.

The strategic group consists of several organisations, including Plymouth University, University of St Mark and St John, City College Plymouth, Plymouth City Council’s Sports Development Unit, Active Devon, YMCA Plymouth, Devon FA, The Plymouth School Sports Partnership and Plymouth Guild’s Active for Life service.

The group, who hope to build on the recent successful Paralympic Games, will meet on a quarterly basis to look at what is going on in the city and to identify any gaps in activity provision.

Inclusive Sport Plymouth also aims to identify, and provide solutions to the challenges and barriers faced by people with disabilities who are participating in sport.

Chairman of the group, Mark Rowles, from YMCA Plymouth said: “It’s great to have so many organisations working together in a really strategic way to strengthen the provision available to people with disabilities in Plymouth.

“Our vision is that there is the opportunity for every disabled person in Plymouth to enjoy participating in sports and physical activity.

“This year we are looking for funding to enable us to create a web-based directory of inclusive activities which are happening across Plymouth; creating a ‘one stop shop’ for people to visit to find out about the different opportunities they can get involved in.”

Inclusive Sport Plymouth also has a wider reference group which is open to any organisation that has a vested interest in disability sport.

Each year, they will deliver two events or training sessions for local sports clubs, helping them to up skill their coaches and volunteers and support sports clubs to become more inclusive.