Disability Sport Fife (DSF) recognises that communication can be a major challenge for individuals with additional support needs wishing to become involved in active recreation and/or sport.
As part of Get Out Get Active supported by Spirit of 2012 (GOGA in Fife) DSF hosted a unique communication workshop aimed at addressing some of the challenges currently faced by coaches and volunteers in Fife.
Speech and language therapist Kate Fernando from Gateside delivered an in depth and thought provoking session on the use of visual imagery to create a positive learning environment. Principal teacher Judy Black from Kilmaron School followed up with a session on signing, based on Signalong, the communication system used in Fife. Both sessions were well received by the selected group of coaches and volunteers who attended the pilot workshop.
Thanks to GOGA investment DSF now has an impressive set of resources that will be made available to coaches and volunteers who operate in DSF sessions held across Fife. Those who attended the workshop will be more confident about addressing the challenges they face with some of their learners.
DSF believes that individuals with severe and complex needs are among the most inactive members of the Fife community. Workshops such as this will equip coaches and volunteers with the skills and tools to address the communication challenges faced by coaches and volunteers in weekly DSF sessions supported by GOGA.
Richard Brickley MBE – President Disability Sport Fife