Kelly helping youngsters get on track

A FEW weeks ago, I was very pleased to welcome Dame Kelly Holmes to the Welsh Assembly and to sponsor an event at the Senedd to raise awareness of her charity’s Get on Track programme.

We know how our sporting stars can inspire people to become more active – the spikes in people taking up sport or engaging in exercise after major sporting successes tell their own stories.

The Dame Kelly Holmes Trust sees athletes as more than just elite athletes.

They work with them to become mentors who in turn empower young people and inspire them to make more positive life choices.

Athletes are both mentors and positive role models who can share their skills such as setting goals, managing their time effectively, developing communication skills and being determined to succeed, to challenge the way young people on the fringe of society lead their lives and encourage them to reach their full potential.

The Get on Track programme has already made a difference to a number of young people across Bridgend County Borough and I was very pleased that the first Get on Track programme in Wales was delivered in partnership with Bridgend County Borough Council.

Following the huge success of the first programme, it is great to hear that Bridgend Council will be running a second Get on Track programme and that more young people will be able to benefit from the programme.