Older disabled people across North Somerset introduced to boccia
Boccia is set to be rolled out in care homes and clubs across North Somerset. The Council’s Sportarray team wants to bring boccia to the district to enable older disabled people to play more sports.
Sportarray is a council initiative aimed at increasing the number of disabled people regularly playing sport. The council will be working with Age UK to introduce it to care homes and older people in the area. Four people have also been trained to coach boccia, through Sportarray funding, and are now offering introductory sessions and sets to show people how to play the game.
Ramps have also been purchased for people who are unable to throw the ball.
It is loosely based on bowls, but with cushioned balls, and is played from a seated position. The ball can be thrown, kicked or rolled, so it can be played by people with mobility impairments.
Bob Hill, from the council’s Sportarray team, said:
“You tape out a court and people stay seated to play. It’s very inclusive because everyone comes in at the same point. You can play it within a lounge setting so it’s perfect for care homes. It suits people who may find it difficult to stand up for a long period or move very far. If it kicks off, it will bring a whole new sport to the area, which is played in the Paralympics.”
(This article is edited from the local news story in the Weston Mercury).
