Great Bedwyn Friendship and Mobility Group has received a £1,000 grant from the Friends of Savernake Hospital and the Community, which will make a substantial contribution towards operating costs.
The group, which is now in its second year, runs afternoon fitness sessions for older people living in and around Great Bedwyn. The fitness sessions start with chair based routines designed to strengthen muscles. Foot tapping golden oldies keep the pace and a highlight is the ten minute chair hockey. Following this is the all important social half hour accompanied by tea, coffee, homemade cake and chat. Finally, there is a relaxing chair based yoga session.
The group also supports carers by allowing them a break while the person they care for is at the group.
Numbers have nearly doubled since the group began in 2016. There can be no doubt that the sessions help participants maintain their mobility and overall health and wellbeing. This is illustrated in the following comments made by members of the group :
”I have loved the combination of fitness and chair yoga, together with the tea and biscuit group friendliness…I’ve noticed the physical and mental benefits and I actively look forward to each session.”
“It is about one year since I suffered a minor stroke. My right arm and leg were affected and the classes on Wednesday afternoons have been invaluable in getting them to move in a way which is more or less back to normal. A number of my fellow participants have commented on the progress I have made.”
“I feel I have benefitted health wise as I am more supple and fitter, and feel years younger! When I miss a class I notice I am not as agile and can’t wait for the next Wednesday to see my friends.”
The Friends of the Savernake Hospital and the Community is a charity set up to support individuals and organisations involved in healthcare both at Savernake Hospital and in the wider community. It aims to enhance the quality of life of those affected by ill health or by disability and supports their care and wellbeing.
If you would like to apply for a healthcare-related grant or learn more about the Friends or become a member or volunteer visit www.friendsofsavernake.org.