Could alternative activities bring new lease of life?

Under water knitting may not be a suitable activity for anyone, even the most avid knitter, but there are alternative activities.

Enjoyment can come from most activities or hobbies but there is a group of women who are taking a specialised sport and tailoring it to their enjoyment. Welcome to the world of synchronised swimming.  Members ranging in age from 56 to 94 regularly meet to train and compete. This has even lead to them being involved in adverts.  

Mobility and ability vary between all members, as well as challenging them physically it also tests their mental skills due to having to remember the routines. Although this activity is limited to women, men can also get involved with arrangements, lighting and filming. One member stated it’s no fun designing costumes for the men “you can’t put gloves and dressage hats on men”.

One member who has been part of the group for 19 years has stated her MS has not affected her performing as she doesn’t fall in the pool. The water gives theses women more freedom to move opposed to the land, it also provides social interaction through their community and a higher sense of purpose. The graceful moves keep them ageless.

Brilliant news on Funding claims

Skills for care have announced that they have extended the period of time to claim funding towards NVQ units. This comes after requests from care home owners, training companies and skills for care representatives.

Funding for completed units can now be claimed for up until 16^th March 2012. This was backed as people signing up in December last year then had a suitable amount of time to complete their selected units.

They have also announced that a wider range of QCF units will also be funded across levels 2, 3 and 5. This is great news for all interested in these diplomas and those already studying. If you would like more information on this or any other news please feel free to contact us.