Since 2001 Sport Ireland have provided funding for the Go for Life programme to help increase the participation of older people in recreational sport and physical activity. This National Grant Scheme for Sport and Physical Activity for Older People (hereafter referred to as the National Grant Scheme) is one element of the extensive Go for Life programme which has resulted from this funding. 

Background

The National Grant Scheme aims to assist in the implementation of locally-developed, well-planned initiatives designed to increase participation in recreational sport and physical activity by older people. In particular, the scheme is aimed at:

  • supporting the work of Go for Life including the network of PALs (Physical Activity Leaders) and the development of Go for Life Games and other initiatives;
  • assisting local clubs/organisations to enhance existing opportunities for their members in recreational sport and physical activity;
  • assisting local clubs/organisations to start new initiatives geared at involving older people in recreational sport and physical activity.

Grants are available to all eligible local clubs, groups and organisations that promote increased participation in recreational sport or physical activity for older people as a main element of their activities.

Grants will be between €250 and €700.

What Will Be Funded?

Physical Activity Programme
For example, (1) a five-week programme to introduce older people to an activity such as aerobics, aquafit, Tai Chi or tennis – the costs of hall hire and a qualified instructor might form part of the overall cost; or (2) an initiative by a sports club to involve more older people – the purchase of special equipment, facility hire or a qualified independent instructor might form part of the overall cost.
 
Purchase of Equipment / Resource Materials
For example, Go for Life Games equipment, pitch and putt set, physical activity kitbag, play parachute, badminton rackets. Please note that, for the 2017 National Grant Scheme, Short Mat Bowling equipment will only be considered for joint applications where it will be shared by two or more groups.
 
Participation Events
For example, organising regular Go for Life Games or a Sportsfest aimed at introducing older adults to a range of recreational sports.

The deadline for applications is 29 September 2017.