Free exercise referral scheme for people with disabilities, run by Plymouth Sports Charity with a grant from the Clare Milne Fund  

Plymouth Sports Charity has been supporting communities for over 12 years with projectsA piece of work that delivers an output. routed in evidence-based research.   

The charity use the medium of sport and education to support disadvantaged young people and vulnerable adults in Plymouth and the surrounding area. 

With a gran9 correct prescribed exercise to support them to manage their condition, limit their symptoms and side effects, improve their mental health and live a healthy, active and balanced lifestyle. The programme included 20 weeks of twice weekly prescribed exercise sessions for 20+ patients and an additional weekly pilates session. 

The project brought together a new community of participants with similar issues allowing them to share their feelings and be open within a safe environment. 

“Mrs. Smith, struggling with osteoarthritis, found daily tasks challenging and felt isolated. Joining the free exercise referral scheme, she attended twice-weekly sessions. Over 20 weeks, Mrs. Smith experienced significant improvements. Tailored exercises strengthened her muscles and increased flexibility, reducing joint pain and stiffness. Beyond physical improvements, her mental health flourished. Mrs. Smith felt happier, more confident, and enjoyed the social aspect of group sessions. By the program’s end, she managed her osteoarthritis effectively, embracing a healthier, more active lifestyle. Grateful for the support, Mrs. Smith felt empowered to continue exercising independently. This success story highlights the scheme’s transformative impact, aiding individuals in managing chronic conditions, improving mental well-being, and promoting an active, balanced lifestyle.”  

I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for the invaluable support you provided through the free exercise referral scheme for the elderly community in Saltash. Your generosity has made a significant difference in the lives of individuals like myself who are living with chronic conditions. – participant 

About the fund 

The Clare Milne Foundation was started by Lesley Milne, in memory of her daughter Clare. The Trust’s focus is to support people of all ages with a disability who live in Devon or Cornwall, to help them to live a full and active life, honouring Lesley’s wishes and keeping Clare’s memory alive. 

The Trust does this by making grants to registered charities and not-for-profit organisations which work directly with people with disabilities who live in Devon or Cornwall.  

Working with Cornwall Community Foundation the Clare Mile Foundation have awarded over £87,000 to support people with disabilities in Cornwall since 2010. This has funded small and well-run groups with strong support from volunteers.  

For more information about Plymouth Sports Charity see https://www.pscharity.org.uk/ 

If you are a community group looking for funding, please view our available grants. 

If you are looking to support the Cornwall Community Foundation with a donation, go to our online donation page.