A new initiative designed to encourage local young people to adopt a healthier lifestyle is to be launched in May, thanks to Brighton & Hove Albion and The Brighton & Hove Primary Care Trust (PCT).

Entitled 'Get Out And Live' ('GOAL'), the scheme will initially target 16 young people aged between 14-16 years, before increasing in size during the summer.

GOAL is the brainchild of Luke Tyler, development officer for Albion In The Community. The concept evolved as the result of a specialist Health Trainer course he undertook in late 2007 with the PCT. The course, which will run across 10, 1 hour 45 min sessions at Withdean Stadium between May and July 2008 and is designed to provide the children with basic knowledge and skills, who are wishing to live a healthier lifestyle.

The aim of the 10-week course will be to familiarise group members with a range of nutritional, physical and mental skills that will provide them with a long-term improved lifestyle. Each week, participants will benefit from a combination of group and individual sessions utilising the facilities at Withdean Stadium designed to give them a structured programme for sustained health enhancements. Although the project is still in it's programming period some of the activities planned will include Team Building, Fitness testing e.g. BMI(Body mass index), weight, height e.t.c. It will also include physical activities which may include Athletics, football, volleyball, tennis and more.

Tyler said, "It is well known that young people can be inactive - a combination of distractions and peer pressure just mean they don't get out much or eat well. But with that has come an increase in long-term health problems that put a greater strain on families and public services and continue the cycle.

"This course is designed to break that sequence by working with these young people to show that living and eating healthily can be enjoyed, and achieved within their current way of life."

"I'm looking forward to changing the lives of our first 14 'GOAL' scorers!"

For more information on the GOAL initiative, and details of how to apply, please contact Luke Tyler on 07860 861598 or Rachel Frazer 07955968747. E Mail: coaches@studysupport.org.