Disability Snowsport UK was awarded £4,000 to introduce local disabled people to the Cairngorm Mountain ski school in the Scottish Highlands. Free taster sessions were offered to those new to the thrill of snowsports in a community engagement programme. This gave access to life-changing opportunities that help develop independence, self-worth and create memorable experiences for those living with any disability.

"We want everyone with a disability, whether it is learning, sensory or a physical disability, to be able to ski alongside other people.”

- Disability Snowsport UK member

The DSUK ski school delivers adaptive ski lessons to people of all disabilities including Cerebral Palsy, Spina Bifida, Downs Syndrome and Autism.

Euan Fraiser, 12 yrs, is a non-verbal autistic child who, for several years, has taken snowsports instruction with DSUK on Cairngorm Mountain. Euan’s life is very challenging and he struggles to cope with everyday life experiences that other people take for granted; walking down the street, visiting the shops, getting a haircut or a new pair of shoes. Euan’s quality of life is better after just a two hour ski session with both physical and mental improvements; his OCD tendencies are reduced, he eats better, sleeps better and relationships with his family and friends are much improved for a number of days after.

“Skiing and snowboarding provide opportunities for disabled people to exercise in a highly social environment in a thrilling and exhilarating way. The sport's therapeutic benefits still surprise us after 30 years."

- Staff member.

Key Facts
Location: Aviemore
Project type: Sport
Bags of Help Funding: £4,000
Grantee: Disability Snowsport UK
Website: www.disabilitysnowsport.org.uk

View the printable pdf Disability Snowsport UK

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Up to £2000 is available from Tesco Bags of Help to support a wide range of projects that benefit your local community. Tesco Bags of Help is administered by Groundwork working with greenspace scotland to support applicants and successful projects in Scotland. 
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