Free activity programme launched to help Walsall over-50s stay active

Residents aged 50 and over are being invited to sign up for free sessions aimed at improving strength, balance and wellbeing across the borough

A new programme of free physical activity sessions has been launched across Walsall to help residents aged 50 and over stay stronger, steadier and more independent.

Chair-based sessions are among some of the activities on offer as part of the programme | ©Walsall Council via Centre for Ageing Better

placeholder image — Chair-based sessions are among some of the activities on offer as part of the programme | ©Walsall Council via Centre for Ageing Better

The Health in Later Life Physical Activity and Prevention Programme is offering 11 community-based programmes across Walsall's north, south, east and west localities.

Activities include chair-based exercise, strength and balance classes, dance sessions, healthy lifestyle programmes and interactive exercise gaming.

The sessions are being delivered by seven community organisations and are designed to help improve strength, mobility and wellbeing while reducing the risk of falls.

Sessions available include:

Bentley Community Centre: Chair-based exercise, Mondays from September 7 to November 23, 10am to 11.30am.
Holy Trinity Church, Willenhall: Healthy Lives Programme, Mondays from September 7 to November 25, 1pm to 2.30pm.
The Local Hub, Bloxwich: Chair-based exercise, Thursdays from September 10 to November 26, 3pm to 4.30pm.
Manor Farm Centre, Rushall: Chair-based exercise, Fridays from September 11 to November 27, 10am to 11.30am.
Nash Dom Community Hub, Walsall: Move, Connect, Thrive, Mondays from September 14 to January 11, 5.30pm to 6.30pm.
Walsall Arboretum Visitor Centre: Balance, Strength & Flow, Wednesdays from September 24 to November 10, 1pm to 2.15pm.
Walsall GameFit: Strength and balance exercises with interactive exergaming, from the week beginning October 5.
Anchor Meadow Health Centre, Aldridge: Healthy Lives Programme, Wednesdays from September 2 to November 25, 10.30am to noon.
Stan Ball Centre, Bloxwich: Dance-based activity sessions, Wednesdays from July 15 to October 14, 10.30am to noon.
All Saints Church Hall, Darlaston: Healthy Lives Programme, Tuesdays from August 11 to October 27, 10.30am to noon.
Manor Farm Community Association, Rushall: Community wellbeing programme, Wednesdays from August 12 to November 4, noon to 1.30pm.

Participants are encouraged to attend throughout their chosen programme to gain the maximum benefit. The sessions also provide opportunities to meet other people and build social connections.

Councillor Matt Eason, Walsall Council's portfolio holder for culture, health and wellbeing, said: "Being physically active is one of the best ways to maintain strength, balance and independence.

"We're delighted to be working with the voluntary and community sector to offer these free opportunities for residents across Walsall."

The programme forms part of wider work with Walsall Together to help residents stay healthier and independent for longer.

Residents can self-refer, while health and care professionals can also refer eligible people. Further information and registration details are available from the individual providers.