DC Leisure is to establish a new Activity Buddy Scheme in partnership with the English Federation of Disability Sports (EFDS) in a bid to increase participation among disabled people.

A pilot project at the Fleming Park Leisure Centre in Eastleigh, Hampshire, will see EFDS-trained volunteers accompany disabled people during exercise sessions in order to provide support and motivation as part of the 'buddy' initiative. Training will also be provided by EFDS for the centre's Activity Buddy co-ordinator as part of attempts to ensure that the scheme proves a success and opens up a wider range of activities to more people.

Sarah Cohen, project manager for the EFDS, said: "The Activity Buddy scheme has played an important role in engaging more disabled people in sport and physical activity, and has been a major factor in helping participants overcome different barriers to participation. "Creating a positive experience around exercise is essential to ensure continued regular involvement and we hope this can be achieved through the volunteer programme."

Janine Millard, sports development officer at Eastleigh Borough Council, added: "The Activity Buddy scheme has played an important role in engaging more disabled people in sport and physical activity, and has been a major factor in helping participants overcome different barriers to participation. "Creating a positive experience around exercise is essential to ensure continued regular involvement and we hope this can be achieved through the volunteer programme."