Putting You First (PYF) is a five year Change Programme for Dumfries and Galloway developed by Dumfries & Galloway Council, NHS and third and independent sectors who are working together to provide better health, care and support services for older people.

Let’s Get Sporty is a local Community Interest Company which aims to provide young people in Dumfries & Galloway the opportunity to enjoy and learn about sport. As a not-for-profit organisation, all the income generated is reinvested in the community.

They would like all people throughout the community from 1½ years old to get involved with sport. Let’s Get Sporty encourage participants to get engaged in sport as often as possible, not only to improve a much publicised need for a healthy lifestyle, but also to develop social skills, teamwork, problem solving and co-ordination that can be used throughout all of life’s daily challenges.

Glen Graham, Loreburn Housing Association director of services, said: “Loreburn is delighted to have begun to work in partnership with Let’s Get Sporty, and look forward to continuing this work in the future. As Let’s Get Sporty is a Community Interest Company it shares many of Loreburn’s objectives, including our vision of improving the wellbeing of people in Dumfries & Galloway.

“Our work together has already helped young service users to gain skills and started to encourage tenants in a sheltered development to participate in activities. Putting You First has generously supported the activities for the coming year in Dumfries, and we hope the initiative will grow across the region.”

David Bradbury, director (coaching & development) at Let’s Get Sporty, added: “The partnership with Loreburn Housing has proved hugely successful. Coaches Liam and Tasha deliver quality sessions that focus on developing a resident’s balance/co-ordination, skill development of specific sports, and most importantly having fun and being active.

“It’s been great for the Let’s Get Sporty team to develop themselves as coaches through adapting activities to suit specific needs. It’s also great for the residents as they are provided with the opportunity to be active and have something to look forward to.”

Michele Fleming, sheltered development co-ordinator, Loreburn Housing Association, said: “The tailor made classes have brought everyone together allowing them to get out of the house and get active, enjoying exercise in a fun environment and having a good laugh.”

Martin Gordon, housing support officer, Loreburn Housing Association, noted: “The partnership with Let’s Get Sporty has given young service users from our project the opportunity for social inclusion by getting involved in community projects with coaching placements. This intergenerational work is improving the health and wellbeing of all our service users and creating job opportunities and work placements.”