Changing Lives programme launched
The Changing Lives programme has been launched.
This exciting project was unveiled through the free Taster Day at the Millennium Pavilion in Somersham.
Changing Lives is a programme of activities specifically for people living with neurological conditions in Somersham and it’s surrounding villages; Colne, Bluntisham, Earith, Pidley, Old Hurst, Woodhurst and Broughton.
The activities are targeted towards those who are affected by a neurological condition such as Parkinson’s, Dementia, MS or Stroke. The invitation extended to family, friends and carers who were welcome to share in any of the workshops on offer, refreshments, a buffet lunch and a chat with leading support organisations.
Cllr Steve Criswell, Chair of the County Council’s Communities and Partnership Committee and also Somersham Parish Council Chairman was at the launch and said:
“This is another example of the local community looking after it’s residents. The Changing Lives initiative helps people to live with certain conditions and remain a valued and active part of the community”
Julie Wilson, Area Development Manager for Parkinson’s UK, says:
“Research has shown some promising results of the benefits of exercise for people living with Parkinson’s including improvements in mobility and balance. This project will help people with long term neurological conditions to manage their symptoms, improve their social support and emotional wellbeing. I am really delighted to be part of such a vibrant and positive initiative, and cannot wait to see the outcomes from this project as it progresses.”
The activities available include Seated/Standing Exercise tailored to an individuals needs, Nordic Walking or a taste of the outdoors with an ‘Into the Woods’ nature ventures. All instructors are fully qualified and have experience working with neurological conditions.
The Taster Day will be followed by 12-week blocks of regular events hosted in Somersham, which will also include a workshop with local creative artist Syrah Arnold.
Lucy Bird, Coordinator of Changing Lives and the Somersham and Pidley Time Bank says,
“We are really excited to be able to reach out to people living in this area to create a network where those affected by neurological conditions feel supported locally”. The project is a priority action and is funded by Cambridgeshire County Council’s Innovation Fund.
For more information visit the website https://changinglivessomersham.wordpress.com/.
You can book onto any of the workshops by calling Lucy Bird on 01487 841359 or email changing.lives@somersham.org.
