Will the Welsh Government outline how it provides financial support for community projects that aim to promote sport as a way to improve mental health and wellbeing?
Supporting health and wellbeing is one of our key goals directed at Sport Wales in its remit letter and is a focus across all of its activities. Sport Wales, together with the National Governing Bodies of sport, invest in projects which will have an impact on health and wellbeing by virtue of them being focused on sport and physical activity.
An example of innovative use of this funding includes the collaboration between Welsh Athletics and Mind to promote positive mental health across their running network. They have specifically developed a Mental Health Champions Scheme, of which there are already 46 trained individuals, and have committed to deliver free mental health awareness across all their athletics clubs and running and social running groups in Wales. It is their ambition to have a Mental Health Champion in every affiliated club.
Sport Wales also deliver the 60+ Active Leisure Scheme which primarily addresses physical health, but it also recognises the importance of mental and social well-being in achieving a healthy weight. The scheme not only provides physical exercise but also creates social engagement opportunities for older adults. The camaraderie and social bonds formed through the ALS activities enhance mental well-being, which contributes to overall health.