Disabled Northlanders can apply for Parafed scholarship to further careers

Paralympic Gold Medallist swimmer Cameron Leslie is urging those living with a physical disability who want to get more involved in sport to apply for one of Parafed Northland's new scholarships.

Breaking down financial barriers is the concept behind a sporting scholarship being offered by Parafed Northland to those living with a physical disability.

It's the first time in nearly a decade Parafed is able to offer a scholarship to its members, however this time there are two up for grabs – one for those under-21 and one for those 21-and-over.

Parafed works with people throughout the Northland community who live with a physical disability to see them included and involved in sport and recreation for enjoyment, good health and competition.

Parafed Northland official and double Paralympic gold medallist Cameron Leslie said it's a no-brainer for anybody in the disabled community who wants to further their sporting career to apply for one of the scholarships.

Leslie said he received one of the scholarships in his first few years of competing so knows full well how they can help.

''If it wasn't for that support and the support of the wider community when I started out I don't think I've have achieved anything like what I have,'' Leslie said.

''It can be a real struggle financially and this will help pay for some of the costs associated with trying to become the best sportsperson you can.''

Regardless of someone's age or ability, Parafed believes Northlanders should have the chance to push themselves.

"The purpose of this scholarship is to help break down a financial barrier which may prevent a Parafed Northland member from furthering their sport," Parafed chairwoman Vicki Meyer said.

"The fund is not designed to cover the entirety of an individual's sporting venture; it is simply about supporting them."

Meyer explained the fund is only for those undertaking some form of regular sporting activity who have ambitions for their chosen sports.

"There are a lot of people in Northland with talent but sometimes financial circumstances can put a stop to them pursuing some opportunities, she said.

"We want this money to help Northlanders. We are a small organisation who does a lot for our members and we want this to be a way we can help add value to their time with us."

To be eligible for the scholarship you must live with a physical disability in Northland, be a paid member of Parafed Northland and be undertaking some form of regular sporting activity which requires you to apply for this scholarship.

The financial investment to each category for 2018 is $250 for the successful under-21 recipient and $500 for the successful recipient 21-and-over.

This scholarship revives the William Allan Johnson Memorial Fund which was previously handed out annually. For full terms and conditions, or to apply, go to www.parafednorthland.co.nz. Applications close October 31.