Watchtree Nature Reserve

Project Title: Physical Activity Offer – Community Groups

Funding Received: £5948

Project Outline:

This funding will support the introduction of two new community groups to Watchtree Nature Reserve. These groups will focus on specific target audiences and will use a combination of walking and cycling to enable the participants to be reintroduced to exercise in an inclusive and welcoming environment.

The over 65s group will cater for older adults that may be at risk of long-term health conditions and may also be identified as vulnerable. The menopause group will cater for individuals at risk of long-term health conditions, specifically those caused by being peri-menopausal, or menopausal.

The attendees of both groups will be individuals that would benefit from an introduction back into exercise in a safe, welcoming environment.

As a result of the Covid pandemic, these individuals have experienced difficulties accessing such services due to the restrictions that were in place. However, as a service Watchtree are committed to expanding their offer to be able to include tailored sessions to specific client bases to ensure they get the support they need in accessing physical activity along with the overarching social benefits. The fantastic links with the local social prescribing service will ensure that those that need this offer the most are referred into this service.

Following several requests from partner organisations and NHS colleagues, the weekly sessions will involve a weekly guided cycle ride around Watchtree Nature Reserve on adaptive cycles followed by a short walk and a coffee and a chat. The guided cycle rides, using our inclusive hire fleet and helmets, will use the trails on the Nature Reserve, and will be planned to get the participants back onto bicycles and increase their confidence in cycling. They will also increase in distance over time as the participants confidence, ability, fitness, and stamina all increase. The walks are planned into the programme to be a gentle stroll to offer the opportunity to get participants walking and talking, offering the opportunity for social interaction for many that have been isolated over recent times.