400 Hertfordshire Residents join the Live Longer Better Revolution

Thursday 5th September 2024 saw over 400 attendees take part in the Live Longer Better in Hertfordshire Celebration Day, hosted by Herts Sport & Physical Activity Partnership, at the University of Hertfordshire's de Havilland campus in Hatfield.

The Live Longer Better in Hertfordshire movement, funded by Hertfordshire County Council, recognises the integral role that older adults play in strengthening our communities and champions the importance of being active to enable independence and encourage longer, healthier and happier lives.   

Older adults are an asset to communities through contributing to the local economy, taking community leadership roles, contributing skills, experience and expertise in a variety of ways such as volunteering, offering care of grandchildren, being active community members, caring for others, making and creating.

Chief Medical Officer’s annual report 2023

The event featured an opening address from Air Vice-Marshal Nick Kurth CBE Deputy Lieutenant, Annie Brewster JP, Hertfordshire High Sheriff and Sarah Perman, Director of Public Health Hertfordshire, who spoke about the importance of staying active in support of a healthy lifespan.  

On the day, over 50 local charities and community organisations delivered physical activity sessions and provided useful information to attendees in the marketplace. Activities included pickleball, tai chi, walking sports, square dancing and chair yoga to name just a few.  

“The marketplace – genius. All those different agencies offering help... I spent well over an hour in the dedicated space and walked away with contact phone numbers and information that will help me in my role as my husband’s carer and for myself as a person in my own right.

The fitness sessions were great, well thought out and appealing. The highlight has to be having a go on one of the adapted cycling bikes for two people, proving that exercise and sport is available for all in Hertfordshire.” 

Lisa, Event Attendee

“We are so grateful for everyone’s support for the event. It is a true representation of the eagerness of residents, professionals and volunteers alike to make Hertfordshire a great county to age well. We hope to use this momentum to support an Age Friendly Hertfordshire”  

Live Longer Better in Hertfordshire Lead, Charlotte Bird

You can view photos from the day here and the event video here or below. Please tag us @SportinHerts and use the #LiveLongerBetterinHerts in your posts on social media.

If you would like to find out more about Live Longer Better in Hertfordshire and join the revolution, please contact Charlotte Bird, c.bird3@herts.ac.uk