Young people and adults with learning difficulties in Southend are being introduced to padel thanks to Padel4All’s partnership with a local charity.
The joint initiative between Padel4all and Hamelin Trust aims to empower young people and adults who are living with learning difficulties to build confidence and have fun whilst trying a new sport.
Padel4All’s centre in Southend’s Garon Park will host regular sessions which aim to keep participants active, improve mental and physical health, develop skills and confidence and have fun.
Hamelin Trust’s Fundraising and Marketing Manager, Martyn Dolton, told The Padel Paper: “Hamelin Trust continuously looks at new and exciting opportunities for the people we support to get involved with.
“By identifying various activities, we can ensure our people have a real choice and find something they enjoy doing which supports our mission of ‘creating compassionate communities where people live the life they choose’.
“As padel is a relatively new sport here in the UK it was the perfect opportunity to explore and get our people involved.”
Hamelin Trust, founded 40 years ago by two families raising children with learning disabilities, have also set up a 10-pin bowling club, Incredibowls, for their beneficiaries.
“Sport is extremely important for everyone to lead a healthy and active life, but particularly for people with learning disabilities, it’s not just about getting active,” said Dolton.
“Sport is a great way to help develop key areas such as social interaction and communication, confidence, as well as having fun! It’s also a great way to improve both physical and mental health.”
Padel is increasingly being perceived as more inclusive and manageable for beginners of all ages and abilities, with similar projects for people with disabilities and special needs or health conditions starting at locations across the UK.
William Bailes, LTA Essex Padel Officer, commented: “As a racket sport that’s accessible for all ages and abilities, it’s great to see Padel4all partnering with Hamelin Trust to support their mission to empower young people and adults to live a healthy, active, fulfilling life.
“It’s great to see the local community embrace the sport. Not only is padel great for fitness, but it’s also fun for all ages. Young and old. Men and women. All played together.”
