A £9,000 Maccabi GB grant to the Charedi community will help more than 250 of its members participate in more physical activity.

The award, part of Maccabi’s Sport Participation Fund, has been awarded to six community projects, aimed at helping adults and children — many with a physical or learning disability — benefit from increased exercise.

These projects are run by organisations that have an affiliation to the Orthodox community: Tikva, The SONshine Club, Youth Direct, Step by Step, Misgav and Lighthouse. Sessions run by each organisation include kayaking, swimming, gymnastics, netball, keep-fit and motor-skills groups.

Step by Step’s project co-ordinator Judith Schaechter said the funding “goes a long way in improving the lives of the children and young people”.

Maccabi GB’s Ashley Lerner said: “We are delighted to help members of the Charedi community take part in more physical activity. We are aware of challenges they can face in finding opportunities to get active.”