Fitness pilot scheme launched in bid to support young care leavers In Oldham

The Oldham Active funded memberships have been awarded to 12 young care experienced people aged 19-25

Oldham Council has partnered with the charitable trust Oldham Active (Oldham Community Leisure) on a pilot scheme offering free three-month memberships to its leisure centres for local care experienced young people.

The Oldham Active funded memberships have been awarded to 12 young care experienced people aged 19-25 to assess the impact of physical activity on their wellbeing.

Launched in December 2024, the pilot scheme will track usage and health outcomes over three months to assess the potential for expanding the programme to more young care experienced people across the borough.

All 12 young people, selected after expressing interest in the pilot, have received an induction from Oldham Active’s expert fitness advisors to help them make the most of the facilities and equipment.

Simon Blair, Deputy CEO at Oldham Active, said: “We know physical activity can be a powerful tool for improving both emotional and physical health, and we’re committed to supporting these young people, who are often considered to be quite vulnerable, on that journey.

“The young people can access a wide range of activities, including over 150 group exercise classes, state-of-the-art gyms, racket sport courts, swimming pools and sauna facilities at our centres in Oldham, Failsworth, Chadderton, Saddleworth and Royton.

“As a charitable trust, we are passionate about offering health and wellbeing opportunities to everyone in our community.

"In addition to supporting care experienced young people, we proudly provide a variety of discounted and funded memberships and pay and play opportunities for veterans, young people, students, people living with disabilities, people on benefits, those over the age of 65 and elite athletes, ensuring that all members of our community can benefit.”

One of the pilot participants said: “Unfortunately, I recently lost my job and coming to the gym is doing wonders for my mental health.

"I have started coming every day and I love it.”

Councillor Shaid Mushtaq, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People at Oldham Council, said: “It's fantastic to see this offer made available to some of our care experienced young people.

"It shows Oldham is a place of partnership that works together to care for our young people and help them get the best start in life no matter their background.

"I'm hoping we can expand the pilot further in the future, as we've already seen those taking part are experiencing the benefits.”

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