Barnado's, Merthyr Tydfil

Barnardo's in Merthyr Tydfil wanted to offer some of their young carers and care leavers the opportunity to try some different sports on a regular basis.

The idea being that having tried a wide range of activities, the youngsters would be confident enough to pursue sport in their own time and be motivated to lead a healthy lifestyle.

So a Sport Wales grant was used to hire a hall and equipment for coaching and training sessions at Merthyr Tydfil Leisure Centre every week. Since last year, the group has tried football, basketball, squash, badminton, netball, zumba and boxercise.

These new experiences have greatly improved the youngsters' confidence and have resulted in one of the boys using the football coaching lessons in his role as a volunteer at a local youth centre.

If you think a Sport Wales grant could make a difference to your community then why not apply for one today.