Activities to support people with type 2 diabetes

Activities will include quiet swims and small gym groups

A new programme of activities is being launched to support people with type 2 diabetes in Shropshire.

The activities, which will run at five leisure centres across the county, aim to help people with the condition live more active lives.

The programme is being funded by £9,000 from the Sport Movement Fund.

"It is vital that we provide accessible and enjoyable leisure opportunities that can make a real difference in people’s lives," said Cecilia Motley, Shropshire Council’s cabinet member for adult social care and public health.

“Initiatives like these really support our recently launched Healthier Weight Strategy for Shropshire, which sets out our vision and plans to address the underlying factors that can lead to long-term illness such as diabetes and heart disease," she added.

Sessions will include cycling, quiet swims and small gym groups, led by qualified trainers.

Shropshire Council said the classes would be at a reduced price of £2.80 to increase accessibility.

The venues included in the programme are:

• Shrewsbury Sports Village

• Market Drayton Swimming & Fitness Centre

• Oswestry Leisure Centre

• The Quarry Swimming and Fitness Centre

• Bishops Castle Leisure Centre

"Being physically active can help people manage their diabetes," said Wendy Marston, community lead for Shropshire Community Leisure Trust, which manages the centres.

"Moving more can help towards managing blood sugar levels and blood pressure.

"Our activities will also support people to lose weight and increase confidence."