From singing groups to inclusive sports tournaments, ActivLives is helping thousands of Suffolk residents improve their physical and mental wellbeing through community-based activities.
The big picture: The Ipswich-based charity has supported 1,921 Suffolk residents over the past year through inclusive sports sessions, exercise activities, support hubs and gardening programmes.
By the numbers:
1,209 women and 712 men participated in activities
About 60 volunteers helped deliver programmes
Three community gardens operating across Suffolk
Why it matters: The programmes are designed to support older people and individuals with mental health needs and physical and learning disabilities across local communities.
Key details: Activities run by the organisation include:
Falls prevention exercises
Breakfast and lunch clubs
Singing groups
Health walks at Christchurch Park
Inclusive boccia and badminton tournaments
Community gardening projects at People's Community Garden and Chantry Walled Garden in Ipswich, and Belle Vue Park in Sudbury
What they're saying: "The sessions have definitely helped with my mobility; my body feels much looser. I feel more positive, and its good speaking to people in similar situations," said a 76-year-old participant in the charity's Better Balance falls prevention exercise programme.
Speaking about ActivLives' inclusive sports tournament, a volunteer said, “It is good for players’ mental and physical health and well-being – the exercise and the connection, the physical and mental activity, with other people.”
Between the lines: The charity works in partnership with Special Olympics Suffolk and Boccia England to ensure sports activities are inclusive and accessible to all participants.
Go deeper: Since 2006, ActivLives has worked with NHS, Public Health Suffolk, local authorities and voluntary services to deliver wellbeing programmes across the region.
How to get involved: Residents can find information about programmes and services at activlives.org.uk.
