Swansea City AFC Foundation plans to significantly expand its successful FIT Jacks program across our city and local community, with the popular initiative receiving a funding boost from Swansea Council through the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund.
The 12-week health and wellness program – which launched earlier this year – combines advice on steps towards a healthier lifestyle with free weekly fitness sessions, tailored to the needs of participants.
In addition to the weight loss benefits, FIT Jacks has also provided invaluable support to participants when it comes to their mental health and social inclusion.
Until now, FIT Jacks meetings have been held at Swansea Stadium.com, but the planned expansion will see the Foundation deliver the program to Swansea Bay University Health Board’s five GP cluster groups in Pendery, Cwmtawe, Llwchwr, City Health and Bay Health.
Referrals to the FIT Jacks program will be offered in these areas, and people will also be able to self-refer to the program.
In addition, the program will be offered to local employers and businesses throughout the city. Workplaces will be accessed to organize health screening events and workshops on health topics.
The increase in funding – which has seen the FIT Jacks program receive £315,770 from the UK Government through the UK’s Shared Prosperity Fund – means it will now have a significant reach in the Swansea area.
Caroline Gwilym, Head of Health and Wellbeing at Swansea City AFC Foundation, said: “As a result of the success we have already had in helping and supporting people to make positive lifestyle changes through our FIT Jacks programme, we are delighted to have the opportunity to expand this delivering services and delivering programs to the Swansea community.
“This is thanks to Swansea Council and funding from the UK Government’s Co-Prosperity Fund. This means we can work with five GP clusters in Swansea, benefiting many more people.
“We are also now in a position to grow the health and wellbeing team at the Foundation to support birthing in the field, 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 only for people’s physical well-being, but also for their mental well-being.
“We are therefore delighted to be able to support Swansea City AFC Foundation’s FIT Jacks program through the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund.
“It supports all the work the council does to encourage people to live healthier lifestyles.”
Cllr Hayley Gwillam, Swansea Council’s cabinet member for community support, said: “This scheme has been very successful since it was launched earlier this year and the funding means even more local people in communities across Swansea can benefit from it in the future.
“Whether directly or working with partners, the council does a huge amount to promote the benefits of healthy living among the people of Swansea.
“The FIT Jacks program will complement the wide range of other services that exist for local people.”
