People with disabilities in Somerset will receive funding for sports sessions

A non-profit organization offering sports sessions to children with disabilities has received funding from the BBC’s Children in Need.

Nova Sports was founded in Bath seven years ago by husband and wife Jenny and Alex Johnson after studying together at the University of Bath.

“Every day I go home and feel like I’ve made a significant difference,” Jenny said. “I grew up playing sports without limitations and it has given me so much. I think every child should have that opportunity.”

Nova has secured three years’ worth of funding through Children in Need, which will go towards the many activities they run in Bath, Somerset and Bristol.

“It’s amazing because as a small organization it allows us to look ahead to the future and not just plan month to month and create sustainable opportunities in our community that we know will be there to last go for these young people.” Jenny added.

Nova Sports organizes a range of activities, such as frame racing, gymnastics and swimming in specially heated pools.

Parents whose children attend the sessions are grateful for the opportunities it provides them.

“It’s a unique opportunity for him to feel some of the things we feel, like the freedom to move our arms or feel the ground as we walk,” says Michael Hartley, whose son is taking one of Nova’s swimming lessons.

“It’s physiotherapy, but in a fun way where she probably doesn’t realize she’s training as much as she is,” says Iain Freeman, whose daughter also swims with Nova.