Age Concern Hampshire: New sessions to extend support

The new activity, funded by The National Lottery Community Fund, forms part of the charity's wider Living Well in Later Life programme.

The programme aims to help older people stay active, connected and independent through community-based wellbeing and physical activity sessions.

Age Concern Hampshire has expanded its Living Well in Later Life programme. (Image: Age Concern Hampshire)

A key addition to the programme is the Love to Move scheme, a chair-based exercise class designed to promote physical mobility and cognitive health.

Jemma Saunders, community engagement officer at Age Concern Hampshire, recently completed specialist training with the British Gymnastics Foundation and is now working towards accreditation to deliver the classes across the New Forest and South Hampshire.

Ms Saunders said: "The Love to Move programme is a structured chair-based exercise course delivered to music.

"It uses gentle, repetitive movement to support mobility and cognitive stimulation, and participants can take part at their own pace.

"People don’t just come for exercise – they come for the laughter, the friendships and the sense of belonging. It’s amazing to see."

The sessions, delivered to music and based on rhythm and repetition, aim to improve coordination, memory and movement in a fun and inclusive setting.

Ms Saunders said the professional development has been rewarding, adding: "It's a lot more involved than traditional activity sessions I’ve delivered before.

"It’s structured, enjoyable and already making a real difference.

"People are having fun, building friendships and improving their movement and memory without even realising it."

Participants have reported strong social and wellbeing improvements, describing the sessions as lively, supportive and inclusive.

Brogan Rehill, head of strategy, partnerships and community impact at Age Concern Hampshire, said the programme illustrates the value of investment in community wellbeing: "This training shows how funding from The National Lottery Community Fund enables us to develop specialist skills within our team, ensuring high-quality, accessible sessions for older people.

"These programmes help reduce isolation, improve wellbeing and support people to remain independent for longer."

The wider Living Well in Later Life project delivers a variety of activities across Hampshire at both Care and Wellbeing Centres and community venues.

Sessions focus on improving strength, balance, mobility and mental wellbeing, while also fostering social connection.

Love to Move sessions are now being introduced across Age Concern Hampshire’s Social Groups and Care and Wellbeing Centres.