ANGUSalive Seriously Social: Health and Wellbeing
As part of the Seriously Social Campaign driven by Community Leisure UK, today we focus on Health and Wellbeing, something that is very important at ANGUSalive and something that has continued to flourish since our inception in 2015.
Indeed, tackling health inequalities, reducing the financial burden on the NHS through preventative and rehabilitation services, improving whole community health and taking a person-centred approach to health is the core of what Charitable Trusts and Social Enterprises delivering public leisure and culture do.
Collectively Community Leisure UK’s 100+ members contribution to Health and Wellbeing has a huge Social Value and saving to the state and the health service. Data evidences that contributions by organisations like ours can save the UK £893 MILLION a year.
Be Active, Live Well
Our flagship programme at ANGUSalive that promotes Health and Well Being is our Be Active Live Well programme.
Be Active Live Well provides a range of activities and supports people who are living with a long-term health condition, identified as at risk of developing one or who are currently inactive, to become more active.
Our Health & Wellbeing Advisors are specially trained and will support people to find an activity that’s right for their condition, helping them build confidence in using physical activity to improve their health and wellbeing.
The 12 week programme has changed the lives of many in Angus where participants, something we are exceptionally proud of.
Supporting Mental Health
Mental health is just as important as physical health. Our facilities provide a variety of programmes and resources to support mental wellbeing. This includes social activities that reduce isolation and creation of environments where individuals can find peace, support, and a sense of community.
As part of our recent Mental Health Awareness campaign, one of our Be Active Live Well participants Ranald reflected how the programme has had an enormous impact on both his physical and mental health.
Healthy Steps Angus
Our Healthy Steps Angus programme has grown since it was launched in 2022. It encourages our residents to engage in regular physical activity through guided walks which makes a significant positive impact on both physical and mental health.
Healthy Steps Angus offers a variety of guided walks designed to cater to different fitness levels, ensuring that everyone can participate. These walks provide numerous physical health benefits, including:
- Cardiovascular Health: Regular walking is a low-impact exercise that enhances cardiovascular fitness, reducing the risk of heart disease and improving overall heart health.
- Weight Management: Walking helps burn calories and can be an effective way to manage weight, contributing to lower risks of obesity-related conditions such as diabetes and hypertension.
- Joint and Muscle Health: Engaging in regular walking helps strengthen muscles and joints, improving mobility and reducing the risk of injuries, especially important for older adults.
In addition to physical benefits, Healthy Steps Angus significantly contributes to mental health and emotional wellbeing:
- Stress Reduction: Walking in nature has been shown to reduce stress levels. The tranquil environments and the rhythmic nature of walking help calm the mind and lower cortisol levels.
- Mental Clarity and Mood Enhancement: Physical activity releases endorphins, the body’s natural mood elevators. Participants often report feeling happier and more energised after their walks.
- Social Interaction: The guided walks provide an excellent opportunity for social interaction. Participants can meet new people, build friendships, and develop a sense of community, which is crucial for mental health and combating loneliness.
The above is jus a snip of some of the work that we do to contribute to the health and wellbeing of our community and if you continue to browse through our site, we know you’ll find a whole host more.
For more information about the Seriously Social Campaign, please visit www.seriouslysocial.org.uk.