1.3 million teenage girls who once considered themselves as ‘sporty’ are dropping out of exercise and activity after primary school and too many girls are disengaging from sport and exercise in their teens. Self-belief, capability and body image concerns can be significant issues for all girls. Therefore, the need to engage girls in more active lifestyles has never been more urgent. But we know that given the right support and opportunities, teenage girls are motivated to take part in sport.
That’s why we created the Big Sister project – a programme created by girls, for girls, to support teenage girls to enjoy sport, exercise and physical activity during puberty.
The programme helps girls aged 9-15 years. Our Big Sister project has helped more than 3,000 teenage girls to get active, by offering free or discounted gym memberships, as well as tailored workout sessions and advice.
Our Big Sister membership is available for girls aged 9-15 enabling access to leisure centre facilities either free of charge or at a 50% discounted rate (9-10 years £8.50/11-15 years £9 are the discounted rates. Full price junior memberships are £18). The Big Sister membership includes access to We Move fitness classes, swimming (Blyth Sports Centre pool is closed at the moment but there are pools at our other sites) and Junior Gym (Junior Gym is only available to those 11-15 years).
Junior gym sessions are on weekdays at Blyth Sports Centre from 3:30pm, Thursdays and Fridays also at 7:15am and on weekends at 11:00am at Blyth Sports Centre.
Memberships will be free to girls aged 9-15 years if the parent/carer/guardian is in receipt of benefits, an adult student or a Places for People Tenant. Proof of eligibility will be required at the time of sign up/first visit to the Centre.
The eligible benefits are listed below:
- Housing Benefit
- Income Support
- Job Seekers Allowance
- Working Family Tax Credit
- Disability Allowance
- Carers Allowance
- Universal Credit
For those who cannot provide evidence, the girls membership will be at a 50% discounted rate of the Flex Junior membership. The price of this will be £8.50 9-10 year olds/£9 11-15 year olds per month via direct debit.
The membership can only be purchased on-site or over the phone, there is no online sign up at this time.
Ahead of the Summer holidays I just wanted to inform you all about the Big Sister membership as we would love you to share the information with the girls who attend your services, youth clubs and any other activities.
