Golden Pass Project Praised for Helping Older Residents Stay Active
The Vale of Glamorgan Council’s Golden Pass Project has been recognised by a national sporting organisation as it supports older residents to become more active.
Sport Wales highlighted the scheme as being a sector-leader for the strength of its multi-agency approach, strategic partnerships and meaningful community engagement that has helped shape the programme.
The Golden Pass offers Vale residents over the age of 60 who are currently inactive the chance to access eight free activity sessions in their community.
The aim of the project is to help participants to stay active beyond the initial free sessions, to meet news people and feel more confident.
One of those to benefit is Sandra Goodchap, who joined the Golden Pass scheme through her local gym in Llandow while recovering from a broken hip. The sessions played a key role in supporting her rehabilitation.
Sandra said: “This has just been absolutely wonderful, I’m able to do all of the things I wanted to do again and it’s strengthened my body.”
Marlene Simmonds is another resident who has benefitted from the scheme, she said: “It’s helped me tenfold really, I’m feeling more confident in myself and coming to the gym has also helped me with my mental health as I live on my own and struggled to find somewhere that was suitable for me.
“My mobility has increased tremendously – especially at the gym - as I am now able to get on to quite a lot of the equipment without help.”
Cllr Gwyn John, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Sport and Well-being, said: “It’s fantastic to see the Golden Pass making such a difference in people’s lives. Projects like this are about more than just physical activity, they help rebuild confidence, improve wellbeing, and ensure residents like Sandra and Marlene stay connected and independent.”
To find out more about the scheme, email goldenpass@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk or visit www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk/goldenpass