Sports trust Tone Leisure is launching a new referral programme for children called Activ8, which is designed to increase energy levels, improve health, increase confidence and help make new friends.

The scheme, a safe, supervised induction to physical activity for children who do not take part in regular exercise or have a medical condition, is being launched at Blackbrook Pavilion and is aimed at two specific age groups, 8 to 11 and 11- to 16-year-olds in the Taunton Deane area.

Bev Farley, Zone Supervisor from Tone Leisure said: “Activ8 consists of two consecutive eight week courses. Each child will get an initial one-to-one consultation with one of Tone Leisure’s qualified instructors.

“We’ll assess all aspects of their lifestyle, including current physical activity levels and diet, and devise an exercise programme taking into account any medical conditions. Then each child will get an induction to the Zone, our kids’ gym.

“We’d like to be able to help children with all sorts of problems, from those who are overweight or a target of bullying to those that have low self esteem, a lack of self confidence, or are simply reluctant to take part in school PE sessions for whatever reason.”

Sessions will be free of charge to children selected by their School Health Advisors or Health Visitors who will be issued with vouchers to attend supplied through Tone Leisure.