L’Arche Manchester loves sport. When the Community was founded in 2013, its members began attending Wythenshawe Wheelers; an all-ability cycling club. Since then, the Community has used sport and other physical practices as a way for core members with learning disabilities to stay healthy and well, and as a way to reduce social isolation and become a visible part of their neighbourhoods and communities.

Every Saturday morning Emma, who is a core member in the Community, takes part in the South Manchester 5k Park Run. She is joined by her friends in the Community, some of whom also take part or who cheer her on from the sidelines! In May this year, Emma took part in the Great Manchester 10k Run, alongside Emily and more than fifteen friends of the Community. Most weeks the Community also attends Didsbury Runners, a walk/run group for adults with learning disabilities.

And that’s not all. As part of the day services within L’Arche Manchester, core members - as well as adults with learning disabilities who join us - take part in a weekly contemporary dance class, as well as inclusive yoga. The Community has been practicing yoga every week for more than a year now. The class includes movement, breath awareness and deep relaxation. It’s relaxed and informal, and creates a peaceful and calming space – often at the end of a busy week of daytime activities!