Active Local: South Oxhey
Active Local is a new initiative by the Herts Sports Partnership which takes a place-based approach to reducing inactivity in Hertfordshire. The concept focuses on various target areas within each of the county’s ten local authorities.
We are working in partnership with Three Rivers District Council to focus our work in South Oxhey by responding to local needs and targeting where support, intervention or extra capacity is needed to create a more joined-up approach to tackling inactivity.
Tackling Inequalities Fund Case Studies
Age UK Hertfordshire – Clitheroe Centre for Health and Wellbeing
Age UK Hertfordshire exist to promote the wellbeing of all older people and to help make later life in Hertfordshire a fulfilling and enjoyable experience. In South Oxhey, Three Rivers, they operate the Clitheroe Centre for Health and Wellbeing. The centre is at the heart of the local community, offering a variety of activities and services as well as the opportunity to socialise and relax.
As a result of Covid-19, the Centre is temporarily closed. The loss of such an important service for many local residents has had a noticeable impact. One of the main concerns for Age UK Hertfordshire was the effect on the activity levels of clients, who would usually be enjoying activities at the centre to help keep them physically and mentally active, whilst they were at home. In June, Herts Sports Partnership awarded Age UK Hertfordshire a grant from the Tackling Inequalities Fund, from Sport England and National Lottery funding. The grant was used to create an Active Ageing Exercise DVD to send out to their clients.
The DVD, created by a local filmmaker and featuring centre staff, used seated exercise to help clients stay active at home. During the numerous lockdowns, this DVD has been extremely beneficial for their physical and mental wellbeing. Margaret is one of these clients: ‘I have thoroughly enjoyed the DVD and seeing the familiar faces of the staff who ‘star’ in the DVD has been lovely. It has been great to feel part of the ‘Clitheroe family’ even though I am stuck at home – Thankyou’.
Well done to everyone at Age UK Hertfordshire and Clitheroe Centre for Health and Wellbeing!
The DVD is now available on YouTube and you can watch it here.
For more information about Active Local South Oxhey please contact:
Kay Searcy
E: k.searcy@herts.ac.uk