Falls Prevention Classes Keep Over-65s Active and Independent
Telford and Wrekin residents over the age of 65 are benefiting from a series of Falls Prevention Exercise classes developed through a partnership between Fit4All and The Wrekin Housing Group, and funded by NHS Shropshire Telford and Wrekin Integrated Care Board.
The programme offers vital support to those at risk of falls, helping participants build strength, balance, and confidence. Led by a team of experienced tutors, the initiative has already been making an impact for many years.
The majority of sessions are taking place at Wrekin Housing Group buildings across Telford and Wrekin.
Joan Bartlett, 86, a resident at Queenswood – a Wrekin Housing Group led extra care scheme in Newport – is one of the residents who are benefitting from the classes. She said:
“I used to attend the exercise class at Adams Close, with my daughter taking me along. I’m hoping these sessions will help stop my mobility from getting worse, and they really do make a difference. I had a break from the classes and could feel my mobility deteriorating again, so I’m glad to be back.
“Being able to attend here at Queenswood is fantastic. I don’t even have to leave the building, and it’s free! I’d encourage anyone to give it a try. It’s not just about the exercise, it’s also about the social side. When I lived in a bungalow, I didn’t see many people from week to week, so it’s lovely to meet new people and enjoy the company too.”
Jude Bailey, Director of Fit4All said:
“This is a falls prevention exercise class, so the focus is on strength, balance, mobility, flexibility, and coordination. We’re taking things smoothly, starting with lower-body and upper-body exercises to get circulation flowing, and offering techniques participants can use at home as well.”
“Even sitting with good posture improves core strength, which helps people sit to stand, improving balance. Over time, we’ll progress to more standing work, delivering exercises focusing on balance, movement, and strength development.”
The classes cater to individuals aged 65 and over who are at risk of falls, have experienced a fall, or are highly sedentary. With participants ranging in abilities and conditions, such as spinal stenosis and Parkinson’s, the programme encourages inclusivity and progression.
Participants receive an exercise booklet with a clear progression plan, enabling them to stay active between sessions. They also benefit from workshops on practical techniques like safely getting up from the floor in case of a fall.
Jude added:
“Our goal is to ensure participants don’t do too much too soon and work within their own limits. The programme is committed to keeping people healthy and reducing falls. With around 300 participants currently enrolled, it’s a community-focused initiative. Most people who attend regularly don’t re-fall.”
The partnership between The Wrekin Housing Group and Fit4All first started in 2008. The programme has flourished, with The Wrekin Housing Group providing in-kind room hire at their facilities.
Katrina Pooler, Events and Activities coordinator at The Wrekin Housing Group said:
“We’re delighted to partner with Fit4All to bring these valuable classes to our tenants. We have been working with Jude and the team for years and are thrilled to now introduce them to our newest scheme, Queenswood. Incorporating these exercises into daily life can make a big difference, helping many people maintain their independence for much longer. And it’s not just for Wrekin tenants, anyone aged 65 or over is welcome to join. We’ve put a lot of effort into making these classes as accessible as possible, ensuring everyone can benefit.”
The newest additions to the programme, funded by NHS Shropshire, Telford, and Wrekin Integrated Care Board, will run for 12 weeks. There are hopes that the funding will be extended, allowing even more individuals to experience its life-changing impact.
For more information and a full list of classes, visit fit4all.org.uk
Pic: Fit4All classes at Queenswood
