A GP referral service has seen 1,000 residents across Ealing getting a free 12-week introduction to exercise at Everyone Active locations located in Acton Centre, Dormers Wells Leisure Centre and Northolt Leisure Centre.
The programme, which has been running since 2014, is delivered in partnership with Ealing Council and aims to help locals in the borough with long-term health conditions improve their fitness and wellbeing.
During the 12-weeks, residents are provided with health screenings and bespoke fitness plans which sees them taking part in a range of acitivties incuding swimming, gym work and group fitness classes.
Acton resident 78-year-old Jennie Fry found the 12-week programme beneficial following two hip replacements. She said: “The programme has helped me to get mobile again and improve my muscle strength. I have become a grandma recently for the first time and I need my strength to hold the baby.”
Mrs Fry added: “The Forever Fit class is good because it got me moving quicker and I got better quicker. For anybody, any age, I recommend them to come and see what they can do – you don’t have to do what you can’t do, you just build up to it bit by bit and slowly.”
Everyone Active’s contract manager for Ealing, Phil Edwards, said: “By promoting regular physical activity, we’re not only improving individual lives but also reducing pressure on traditional healthcare services in Ealing. Our collaboration with local GPs allows residents to access these vital services as an effective complement to conventional care, making our community healthier while easing the strain on our NHS.”
Ealing residents who would like to find out more about the programme are advised to speak to their GP or healthcare professional about a referral.
