Community Foundation hosts Sensory Rugby festival

Young people with profound and multiple learning difficulties, and complex medical conditions from New Fosseway School, Claremont School and Silva Care Community Services, were joined by visitors from Gallagher UK, Activity Alliance, Bristol City Council’s Disabled Children’s Team and representatives of local Active Partnerships.

Bristol Bears duo, Jake Armstrong and Jordan Lay also dropped in to support the event and engage with the young people and volunteers involved. 

Building on the foundations laid by Project Rugby, the event was the first of six inclusive schools festivals this year, with dance, tennis, boccia, basketball and football all planned for later dates.

“It has been a real privilege to give this opportunity to some of the most physically disabled and sensory impaired young people in the city,” said programme manager, Kris Tavender.

“Adapting sport and physical activity to overcome these complex challenges is perhaps the most rewarding part our schools delivery.

“We know that these young people have aspirations to compete and share their sports stories in much the same way as their mainstream counterparts – and to be a small part of that journey is a real blessing to us all at the Foundation.

“The value of volunteers and visitors cannot be expressed enough. Not only is it about waving the flag and demonstrating the abilities of our young people, but it is a real celebration of the hearts of the likes of Gallagher UK and our own players, and the huge impact they can have on the lives of these amazing young people.”