PEOPLE living with mental health conditions have been invited to get in shape with Bradford Bulls.

The Active Support Programme is a partnership between Bradford Bulls Foundation, Bradford Wellbeing Service and Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust.

Anyone who is under the care of the community mental health team can attend a weekly fun session on the pitch at Odsal Stadium. Led by Bulls' coaches, the free drop-in programme explores basic ball skills and fitness and can be tailored to suit all ages and abilities.

Participants will also be able to view historical items relating to the Bulls as well as watching footage of old games.

Mark Ratcliffe, service manager, Bradford Wellbeing Service, which is operated by national adult health and social care charity Making Space, said: "This is a fantastic example of partnership working in our community.

"The people who use our service can now take advantage of these friendly and informal exercise sessions on the Bradford Bulls' pitch.

"The emphasis is on getting out the house and meeting new friends, and there is no pressure to do anything you are not comfortable with - you can do as much or as little as you wish.

"Whether it’s a gentle walk around the stadium or trying out some new sports, the overriding ethos is to have fun."

Ryan Hunkin, Bradford Bulls' Foundation head coach, said: "The Active Support Program is a weekly inclusive sports-related exercise session.

"We cover many sports and sessions are led by both the coaches and the participants. If participants have an interest in trying new sports or feel they excel at other sports we will facilitate them.

"Each week we focus on fundamental movement and core skills such as sending and receiving a ball, agility, balance, teamwork, hand-eye coordination and hand-foot coordination."

Asad Hussain has been attending the sessions since they began earlier in the summer.

He said: "I really enjoy this group. I have met new people who I get on well with and it is getting me fit and healthy.

"The Bulls' staff are very supportive and encourage you to do things you would not normally do. You can do as much or as little as you want and have a laugh at the same time."

Shaun Glennon has also been enjoying the weekly sessions with the Bulls. He said: "Coming to Odsal stadium has done a lot for my confidence. The coaches are encouraging and supportive at the same time. I hope the project carries on for a long time."

The Active Support Programme, for all ages, genders and abilities, runs every Tuesday 3-4pm at Odsal Stadium, Bradford BD6 1BS

For more information on Bradford Wellbeing Service, email Bradford.Wellbeing@makingspace.co.uk or call 01535 606086.