Ipswich charity's inclusive sports and garden projects transform local lives

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.