Recognition for two Live Longer Better in Hertfordshire Community Champions

Hertfordshire's High Sheriff, Annie Brewster JP, is leading her year of 'Sport for Good' across Hertfordshire. As part of this, Annie is recognising those making exceptional contributions in the community.

On the 27th June two Live Longer Better in Hertfordshire Champions, John Molyneux and Claire Uwins were presented with an 'outstanding service to Health and Wellbeing' award.

Claire and John are both involved with the Parkinson's community. Claire leads the Parkinson's support group based out of Grange Paddocks leisure centre in Bishops Stortford and John is supporting the group through delivering an exercise class with them once a month.

The surprise award presentation took place at Grange Paddocks, Everyone Active Leisure Centre, within the Parkinson's support group.

Claire Uwins is an incredibly proactive volunteer supporting East Herts, in particular supporting the Parkinson's community. Everyone Active offer free memberships to those with Parkinson's Disease and their carers. The programme of support and activities at Grange Paddocks, led by Claire, is seen as the gold standard programme with aims for it to be replicated at other Everyone Active sites across Hertfordshire.

Following her relentless vigour there are around 180 people with Parkinson's Disease plus 55 of their carers registered at Grange Paddocks. There are roughly 60 people engaging weekly in the range of activities taking place, such as boxing, tai chi, nordic walking, including activities supported by the Live Longer Better in Hertfordshire bid writing service.
John Molyneux has a passion for ageing well and harnessing the power of physical activity to Live Longer Better. John has expertise in Parkinson's Disease and has been flying the flag for the importance of exercise as medicine. He was able to raise awareness through BBC Look East news and in partnership with Live Longer Better in Hertfordshire, has created an exercise guide for advanced Parkinson's Disease. John is also helping the Parkinson's support group with tailored gym-based activities and cycling.

John has also demonstrated passion in supporting unpaid carers, through Carers in Herts online and face-to-face classes. Feedback from the carers was incredible with 100% saying the sessions helped them feel better in themselves and 100% saying the sessions helped them follow an interest outside caring.

John is running a programme in collaboration with Hertfordshire Libraries, recognising the libraries are a hub of the community. The Move Yourself to Better Health programme aims to empower residents by creating a supportive group to improve movement and activity, looking at the different areas/domains of activity.

Both Claire and John have helped Live Longer Better (LLB) in Hertfordshire in so many ways to improve lives for older adults across Hertfordshire. LLB team are very proud of their achievements and grateful for their ongoing support. Congratulations to them both!

The High Sheriff of Hertfordshire, Annie Brewster JP said:

‘I was so impressed and amazed to hear what Claire and John were doing within their community groups. What a difference they are making to the Parkinson’s community and the praise from participants was huge! Seeing the support group in action hit home how important it is that these fantastic community champions are recognised and supported. Well done to these brilliant human beings and thank you for putting so much effort into your work, the love and passion you have shines so brightly through.’