Celebrating a year of helping people stay active and connected

In the last 12 months, the programme has expanded to 30 venues across Worcestershire. Today, approximately 700 people take part in a Healthy Worcestershire session each week.  

Launched in the summer of 2024, Healthy Worcestershire delivers weekly group sessions within communities. These offer a friendly and supportive space to stay active, learn about health and wellbeing, and build connections.  

The programme typically includes the opportunity to take part in gentle exercises such as strength and balance activities, helpful health talks on topics such as community safety, and offers practical advice about staying safe and well.  

Within its first year, Healthy Worcestershire has had a positive impact on people's health and wellbeing. A remarkable 99% of participants said they are now leading healthier lifestyles. In addition, 65% reported improvements in their strength, balance and flexibility.

It’s also a space to discover other local activities, have a chat, make friends, and enjoy quality time with others.

Councillor Satinder Bell, Worcestershire County Council’s cabinet member for health and wellbeing, joined the session at Honeybourne Village Hall last week to join the celebrations and meet some of the participants.

She said: “Our Healthy Worcestershire programme is about putting people at the heart of their own health and wellbeing. We listen closely to people taking part and adapt the programme to meet their needs, making sure it’s relevant, enjoyable, and supports them in living healthier, more connected lives. From boosting confidence and managing stress, to understanding nutrition and staying safe, this initiative is making a real difference across the county.”

Jenny Bruton who attends Healthy Worcestershire sessions regularly said: 
“My doctor suggested it. I was struggling a bit. I've met new people, which is very nice and I've enjoyed the exercises very much. You're not over pushed. You can do it at your own pace and it's super.”

Whilst Anne Innes who goes to the Honeybourne sessions said: 
“I very much enjoy the sort of social gathering afterwards. I think it's very enlivening to have around the table chat, especially if you don't necessarily, meet in groups of people that often. Talking to other people is very therapeutic, lifts your spirits. It's a good thing for your physical wellbeing, but it's also very good for your mental wellbeing to come out to something like this.”

Throughout its first year, participants have shaped the programme by suggesting topics such as improving confidence, summer safety, probiotic foods, falling safely, and tackling negative thoughts. All of which have been addressed by the Healthy Worcestershire trainers.  

The feedback has been extremely positive. At the Hill Centre in Upton, a participant expressed a need for support with managing stress, and so the team brought in yoga instructor Saru to deliver special breathwork sessions known as Pranayama.  

Healthy Worcestershire is funded by Worcestershire County Council’s Public Health team and delivered by the Healthy Worcestershire Team from Solutions4Health.  

Leena Sankla, Director of Public Health & Lifestyle Services at Solutions4Health said: “As we mark one year of the Healthy Worcestershire service, we’re proud to have worked with communities across the county to support physical activity, social connections, and mental wellbeing. This first year has been about listening, learning, and building strong local partnerships and we remain committed to creating opportunities for people to stay healthy, make friends, and have fun across Worcestershire.” 
To find out more about Healthy Worcestershire, and locate your nearest venue, visit the Healthy Worcestershire website.

The Public Health Team from Worcestershire County Council provides advice and guidance to help people make informed choices about how to stay physically and mentally well.