Let’s Get Active in York 2023
Friday 3 November 10:00am - 4:00pm
Energise Leisure Centre, Cornlands Road, Acomb, York, Y024 3DX
Yorkshire blind and partially sighted residents are invited to join North Yorkshire Sight Loss Council at their ‘Let’s Get Active in York’ event.
This free, multi-sport event is being held on Friday 3 November 2023, from 10.00am – 4.00pm, at Energise Leisure Centre, in York.
No previous experience is required.
If you are looking to meet new people and try something new, this event is for you.
About the event
We will have experienced coaches at the event who will deliver a wide range of activities. Sports will include VI goalball, martial arts, climbing wall, tennis, golf, Pilates, Tai-Chi and gym fitness.
There will also be several stalls sharing information about accessible leisure clubs and activities across the region, including photography, mindfulness, book clubs, computer clubs, climbing and archery.
Lydia Wrightson, Ladies B4 Singles Champion at the National VI Tennis Championships, is also a supporting tennis coach on the day. She said:
“As supporting tennis coach for the day, the ‘Let’s Get Active’ event means a lot to me as it will be great to tell other people about my positive experiences of playing VI Tennis. It will be a wonderful opportunity for blind and partially sighted people to experience a wide variety of sports and have fun.”
Lydia Wrightson, Ladies B4 Singles Champion at the National VI Tennis Championships
Iain Mitchell, Senior Engagement Manager for North England, said:
“We are excited to host our second ‘Let’s Get Active in York’ event in November. We had a fantastic turn-out last year, and we look forward to bringing blind and partially sighted people across Yorkshire together again.
“Our event will be the perfect opportunity to try a wide range of activities. There is something for everyone – whether you would like to pick up a sport, try something new, or simply find out what’s on offer across the region.
“Being active plays such an important part in people’s wellbeing and hopefully our event will highlight that there is something for everyone.”
Josie Clark, York SLC member, said:
“I thoroughly enjoyed last year’s event. There was a lot of activities to try. I felt safe and confident during the day as there were plenty of people available to guide me to activities and offer support.
“The activity leaders were very helpful and considerate of our needs. All in all, the day had a great positive vibe and thoroughly enjoyed it.”
Belle Whitely, SLC Coordinator for Yorkshire and Humberside, added:
“Join us for our free Let’s Get Active in York day and try something new. Whether you are a complete novice or a seasoned sportsman it is a great opportunity for blind and partially sighted people to get active.
“Come and enjoy a fun filled day and have a chance to meet new people.”
Participants at York SLC’s 2022 ‘Let’s Get Active’ event, during a VI Tennis session
Questions and Answers
How do we get to Energise Leisure Centre?
From Piccadilly York, take the number 4 bus towards Acomb. This takes approximately 25 minutes. Disembark at York High School. The venue is approximately a one-minute walk from the bus stop.
From York Train station take the number 1 bus towards Chapelfields. This takes approximately ten minutes. Disembark at Acomb Methodist Church. The venue is approximately an eight minute walk from the bus stop.
Will there be guides at the leisure centre?
Yes, there will be volunteers who will assist people to get to their chosen activity. However, we cannot guarantee it will be on a one-to-one basis, as we do not know how many people will register to attend.
We would ask that you are patient with our volunteers who will be working hard to help you get to where you want to go.
Will there be a maximum number of people able participate in a sport at any one time?
Yes. Once you arrive you will be able to register the sports you wish to try. Please note that the sports will have maximum numbers of people that can participate per hour. This number will differ, depending on the nature of the sport.
Can I be guaranteed a place doing my preferred or favourite sport?
We cannot guarantee you will be able to do your first choice because places for each sport are limited, dependent on the activity. They will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis on the day.
Can I bring my guide dog?
Yes, guide dogs are welcome.
What should I wear?
Something comfortable and not restrictive, and trainers if you have them. You do not need expensive sportswear.
Are there changing facilities?
Yes, there is an area you can get changed in, but we would encourage you to arrive, ready to go. Directions will be given on the day about where you need to go.
Is there somewhere to eat?
Yes. Inside there is a café in the reception area that will do light snacks and hot and cold drinks.
Can I bring my family with me?
Yes, we want this to be a fun day for everyone. As long as someone in your family group is blind or partially sighted, all can join in and participate in the activities.
We do ask that children are always accompanied by an adult though. We don’t want anyone to get lost or hurt.
Do I need to have experience in any of the sports and activities?
No. This is a taster day. We hope you will find something you really enjoy and want to continue with it after the event.
There will be several stalls introducing you to different activities that are available, such as sailing and walking groups.
Will there be swimming lessons?
There is no swimming at this event.
Who can attend?
Anyone from Yorkshire who is blind or partially sighted is welcome to attend. Please note children must be always accompanied by parents or guardians.