Swansea City AFC Foundation's FIT Jacks programme to expand following funding boost
Swansea City AFC Foundation plans to deliver a significant expansion of its successful FIT Jacks programme throughout our city and local community, with the popular initiative having received a funding boost from Swansea Council through the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund.
The 12-week health and wellbeing programme – which started earlier this year - combines advice on steps towards a healthier lifestyle with free weekly fitness sessions, which are tailored to the requirements of the participants.
In addition to weight loss benefits, FIT Jacks has also provided invaluable support to attendees when it comes to their mental health and social inclusion.
Up to this point FIT Jacks sessions have been held at the Swansea.com Stadium, but the planned expansion will see the Foundation deliver the programme across five of Swansea Bay University Health Board’s GP cluster groups in Penderi, Cwmtawe, Llwchwr, City Health and Bay Health.
Referrals to the FIT Jacks programme will be offered in these areas, with people also being able to self-refer themselves onto the programme.
Additionally, the programme will be offered to local employers and businesses across the city. Workplaces will be approached to accommodate health testing events and workshops on health topics.
The funding boost – which has seen the FIT Jacks programme receive £315,770 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund – means it will now have a considerable outreach into the Swansea locality.
Caroline Gwilym, Swansea City AFC Foundation’s head of health and wellbeing, said: “As a result of the success we have already achieved helping and supporting people make positive lifestyle changes through our FIT Jacks programme, we are thrilled to have the opportunity to expand this provision and take the programme out into the community of Swansea.
“This is thanks to Swansea Council and funding from the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund. It means that we are able to work with the five GP clusters in Swansea, which will benefit so many more people.
“We are also in a position now to grow the health and wellbeing team at the Foundation to support the delivery on the ground, so this is a very exciting time for us.”
Cllr Robert Francis-Davies, Swansea Council’s cabinet member for investment, regeneration and tourism, added: “Fitness, healthy eating and regular exercise are so important – not just for people’s physical wellbeing but for their mental wellbeing, too.
“This is why we’re delighted to be able to support Swansea City AFC Foundation’s FIT Jacks programme through the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund.
“It supports all the work the council does to encourage people to lead healthier lifestyles.”
Cllr Hayley Gwillam, Swansea Council’s cabinet member for community support, said: “This programme has been very successful since its launch earlier this year, and the funding means even more local people in communities throughout Swansea can benefit from it in future.
“Be it directly or by working with partners, the council does a huge amount to promote the benefits of healthy living to Swansea residents.
“The FIT Jacks programme will complement a wide variety of other services which are in place for local people.”