It was great meeting the people that make YSJActive such an inclusive facility the other week, and I covered the innovative activities they offer here, but there was also so much more I learnt whilst visiting them that I want to share.
Manager Becky told me about the new purpose designed mental health hospital that was being built by Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Trust next door to their site, that will replace the old Bootham Park Hospital and support 21st Century care. She explained how YSJActive were very much going to be collaborating with them to ensure the two facilities worked hand in hand together.
To start with a specific entrance and access directly between the two sites will ensure both facilities feel connected to one another.
She was excited that her team would be able to deliver physical activities onsite for patients as well as providing sessions specifically to meet their needs within the Sports Centre. She very much wants to normalise the use of the sports facility and offer a form of rehabilitation service after their hospital stay.
She also told me about 2 allotments they have acquired across the road which will provide an alternative outside haven for as many groups around the city as possible.
They are going to build a summer house, with a kettle for a quick cuppa for socials. Outside they will have vegetables and fruit growing, alongside wildlife and pond areas. There will be wheel chair access, raised beds with older people in mind and the opportunity to do as much, or as little gardening as people please.
The whole idea is to bring an alternative tranquil atmosphere to people with well being and gentle physical activity at the heart of everything.
Long term the team would like to create a green gym area in a currently derelict area behind the hospital and ensure the 57 acre site is used to the very best of their ability to enhance people’s lives. They are also keen to find any gaps they have in their service provision.
With a team of seven well trained and very socially aware staff, supported by 15 student staff, YSJActive really are a cutting edge Sports Facility, marrying up great facilities for their own students and staff with innovative activities, vision and access for the whole wider public, regardless of their age or ability.
And just as Joe and I were leaving, after a tour around the impressive facilities, Becky mentioned a final activity that they wanted to introduce and that was Pensioner Parkour. If you look it up on the internet, I think you will agree this is pretty impressive.
YSJActive are very keen to collaborate with any group who are interested in the services they offer, particularly York based groups that support those with dementia, mental health, older people, refugees and physical difficulties.
Contact Manager Becky Scott
Foss T: 01904 876200
Haxby T: 01904 876340
Facebook: YSJActive
Twitter: @YSJActive
Instagram: ysjactive
