Slàinte Mhath Scheme

Comhairle nan Eilean Siar’s Education, Sport and Children’s Services Committee yesterday agreed a proposal to offer free "Slàinte Mhath" memberships to groups supporting vulnerable or "At Risk" children across the Islands.

A number of third sector bodies, charitable organisations and Comhairle services have approached the Sport and Health section requesting access to sports facilities for young people and their carers/mentors.

Chair of the Committee, Cllr Angus McCormack, said: “These type of organisations support vulnerable and ‘at risk’ children across the islands. Many of these young people would benefit from increased physical activity opportunities, diversionary activities and improved social networks and I am pleased that we have been able to support this proposal”.

The ‘Slàinte Mhath’ Scheme has previously been used as a good example of how councils should handle health and leisure facility fees.

Since the ‘Slàinte Mhath’ scheme came into place in January 2010 and fees were reduced by more than half, there has been a 25% increase in the number of people using the facilities.

The recommendation of the Committee will go to the full Comhairle for ratification on the 21 June.