Successful Bristol strength, balance and social programme for older adults celebrates first anniversary

This month sees the first anniversary of the highly successful Bristol community-based exercise programme, REtirement in ACTion (REACT).

REACT is designed to improve the health and well-being of older adults through sociable strength and balance classes, while reducing health and social care costs.

The one-year milestone will see staff and attendees come together to celebrate the success of the sessions with an event on 23 January at Easton Leisure Centre.

The classes have grown from strength to strength. Initially launched at Easton Leisure Centre, there were 10 referred participants for the first class, and over the course of a year, that number has grown to 60 across two different classes at the facility and another at St Paul’s Community Sports Academy.

Everyone Active, which manages the two centres, is now adding REACT classes to its Bristol community outreach programme.

The sessions at Easton Leisure Centre, St Paul’s Community Sports Academy, Wellspring Settlement and St Peter’s Church, Henleaze are all running in 2024, with three other new locations planned in south Bristol.

Older adults who feel that attending sessions will help their strength and balance can either be referred by their GP or self-refer.

REACT is an evidence-based intervention to support those with reduced mobility and increased frailty through group sessions focused on strength and balance. Along with the physical benefits, this helps attendees with maintaining independence and staying motivated to be active.

What’s more, the sessions are designed with a strong social aspect to help tackle loneliness and promote overall wellbeing.

The REACT community rollout is supported by Bristol Health Partners Active Lives Health Integration Team (HIT) working in partnership with Age UK Bristol, which is collaborating with Everyone Active Sports and Leisure Management Ltd and other provider organisations and freelance instructors.

Kay Libby, CEO of Age UK Bristol, said:

“The REACT project has grown from strength to strength. It is making a real difference to the lives of older people in the community and it’s been great to see the enjoyment that people are getting from the sessions alongside all the other obvious health and wellbeing benefits. We are proud to be a part of this incredible team and can’t wait to see what the next year brings.”

Cameron Bate, contract manager at Everyone Active, commented:

“It is fantastic to celebrate one year of REACT and reflect on the positive impact it has had on so many older individuals in Bristol.

“Not only does it improve strength, balance and coordination for those with reduced mobility, but it also helps build confidence, make friendships and tackle health inequalities.

“We are really proud to be part of the programme and look forward to seeing REACT continue to deliver for the community.”

To find out about setting up a REACT programme or for questions about REACT please contact Karen Lloyd:

• E: [email protected]
• M: 07734 335878

For GP referral or self-referral to REACT sessions, please complete this form. Please select Easton Leisure Centre (Bristol) in the drop-down box.