A scheme which supports people who are experiencing loneliness, low mood or who may be living with dementia has won a top award during the Covid-19 coronavirus pandemic.

Provided by Halo Leisure’s Active Communities team in partnership with Bridgend County Borough Council, the ‘Feel Good for Life’ programme has been presented with a national Community Leisure UK award in the ‘impact through physical activity’ category.

Designed to champion and showcase outstanding achievements by leisure trusts and social enterprises, the awards have highlighted how the “Feel Good For Life” programme originally began as a dementia-friendly swimming project before expanding into further activities using a wider range of resources and venues.

Working alongside partners such as Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, Alzheimer’s Society, BAVO and Awen Libraries, the project seeks to create a safe and friendly leisure environment for people living with dementia as well as their families and carers.

It also supports people who may be experiencing loneliness or low mood by encouraging them to take part in activities ranging from table tennis and badminton to craft sessions and scrapbooking, and to make new friends along the way.

Cllr Phil White, Cabinet Member for Social Services and Early Help, said: “The dementia-friendly swimming provision in Bridgend County Borough has been a big success story, with the programme quickly growing to incorporate a wider range of activities and venues.

“I’m delighted that this has been recognised by the Community leisure UK award, and would like to thank everyone at Halo and the Active Communities team for their work in supporting local people.”

Halo Leisure were also finalists in another two categories in the Community Leisure UK Awards – the ‘Workforce Development’ and ‘Outstanding Volunteer’ awards. Visit the Feel Good For Life website to find out more.