We’re delighted to have granted £1,000 to Purposeful Active Living (PAL) from our Community Impact Fund. Our donation will fund free exercise classes primarily for older adults living with long term health conditions in Walsall.
PAL work in partnership with Parkinson’s UK to offer Strength and Balance classes for all mobility levels to maintain and build fitness, which reduces the likelihood of a fall or physical accident.
The classes also boost mental health and reduce loneliness by allocating time after each session for socialising. Having a regular social commitment helps participants to build a local support network and connect with likeminded individuals of a similar age.
The £1,000 donation from our Community Impact Fund will directly fund an instructor for a block of 20 free classes throughout the spring and summer at the Community Engagement Centre in Walsall. The programme will specifically target older adults living in the Bescott/Palfrey areas with long term health conditions.
Asima Hussain, our Health and Independence Manager, who runs the centre, said:
“We have seen how much our diverse group of attendees value the sessions, and the friendships they are creating too. Exercising together is creating a great sense of community, and some attendees now come together to the sessions.
“The Community Engagement Centre has become a hub for connection, confidence and wellbeing. This funding means we can continue supporting older adults in a way that truly makes a difference. Thank you GSA for your support”
The Public Health Annual Report suggests that the average Walsall resident is likely to live 5 years less of a “healthy life” than the national average, and over 50% of local adults with long term health conditions are inactive. This results in a lower quality of life, lack of independence and increased reliance on emergency healthcare.
Our Community Impact Fund is an initiative designed to support residents in the areas we work in. Grants of up to £2,000 per project are available for charities and community groups.
Sian Every, our Social Value and Investment Lead, adds:
“Exercise is so important for our physical and mental health, especially to older adults with long term health conditions.
“I am delighted we could fund the Strength and Balance programme for our residents in Walsall and I look forward to hearing about the impact of the classes.”
Find out more about our Community Impact Fund here.