Residents aged 50 and over across Walsall are being invited to take part in a new programme of free physical activity sessions designed to help them maintain strength, improve balance and support independent living for longer.
The Health in Later Life Physical Activity and Prevention Programme has now launched its first cohort, with seven community providers delivering 11 programmes across Walsall’s four localities: north, south, east and west.
The programme is aimed at residents aged 50 and over who want to improve their physical wellbeing, remain active within their communities and reduce their risk of future falls. Through free, locally delivered sessions, participants can work on their strength, balance, mobility and confidence in supportive community environments.
A wide range of activities are available as part of the programme, including chair-based exercise, healthy lifestyle sessions, dance activities, strength and balance training, community wellbeing programmes and interactive exergaming.
Sessions are being delivered by trained professionals through voluntary and community organisations at venues across the borough. The providers involved in the first cohort are The Getting Fit Company, Purposeful Active Living (PAL), Manor Farm Community Association, Bloxwich Community Partnership, MettaMinds CIC, GameFit and Nash Dom CIC.
Councillor Matt Eason, Portfolio Holder for Culture, Health and Wellbeing at Walsall Council, 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.
This programme will help residents build confidence, improve their wellbeing and make valuable social connections, all within welcoming community settings close to where they live.”
The programme forms part of wider partnership work with Walsall Together, supporting residents to remain healthier and independent for longer by helping them access preventative services and activities within their own communities.
Dr Anand Rischie, Associate Medical Director for Primary Care at Walsall Together, said:
“Physical health is a vital part of helping people stay independent and well, and this programme is a strong example of how neighbourhood health can make a real difference. By working together across organisations and delivering support within local communities, we’re helping residents access preventative activities closer to home and supporting them to live healthier, more independent lives for longer.”
Participants are encouraged to attend sessions throughout the full 12-week programme to gain the greatest benefits. Alongside improving physical health, the sessions also provide opportunities for social interaction and building connections with others in the local community.
Residents can refer themselves to the programme, while eligible residents may also be referred by health and care professionals. Details of available sessions and referral routes are available through participating providers.
Eligibility and programme information
The programme is available to:
- Walsall residents aged 50 and over.
- Individuals who have not experienced a fall within the previous 12 months and do not have specific risk factors, such as gait or balance impairments.
The activities are designed to be completed over the 12-week programme period rather than attended as individual one-off sessions. Participants are encouraged to maintain regular attendance and should check with their provider regarding any planned breaks.
Locality delivery partners
The programme is being delivered through VCS Locality Leads:
- South Locality – Nash Dom CIC: vcsleadsouth@nashdomcic.org
- North Locality – Bloxwich Community Partnership: vcsleadnorth@bloxwichcp.co.uk
- West Locality – Old Hall People’s Partnership: vcsleadwest@ohpp.org.uk
- East Locality – Manor Farm Community Association: vcsleadeast@manorfarmca.com
The programme forms part of ongoing efforts across Walsall to promote healthier ageing, strengthen community connections and support residents to live well for longer.