Somerset Activity and Sports Partnership (SASP) is pleased to announce the launch of Move More Together, a programme designed to encourage inactive adults over 50 to become more active. They will be matched with a volunteer who they will meet with regularly on a one-to-one basis, and who will support them to take their first steps towards being more active and enjoying a healthy lifestyle.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the UK population has never been less active. In 2019, a quarter of UK adults were already classed as inactive (source: ukactive), a number which has since increased, as the pandemic forced millions to work from home and options for exercise were limited. As restrictions have eased, many older adults are keen to become more active again, but access and confidence remain significant barriers.

Move More Together volunteers can accompany participants with various activities, such as home-based exercise, going for a walk locally or trying out an exercise class. Activities can vary from week to week, and volunteers will be aware that flexibility is key to finding an activity that is suitable for sometimes unpredictable health conditions.

Lianne Clarke, Active Ageing Manager at Somerset Activity and Sports Partnership, said: "The pandemic has impacted many people's health and wellbeing but the enforcement of shielding has meant that a significant proportion of older adults are now finding getting back to physical activity particularly challenging. Whether it's because of a physical decline or a loss of confidence, Move More Together hopes to address these issues and give people the encouragement and flexibility to take those first steps again."

Become a Move More Together volunteer today!

Looking for an opportunity to volunteer in your local community? Perhaps you have some time on your hands and would like a new challenge, or you may be looking for a chance to meet new people and learn some new skills. You may have experience of poor health yourself and would like to support someone at the start of their journey.

As a SASP volunteer, you will be joining an amazing team dedicated to improving the health and happiness of residents across Somerset. You will receive a full induction and training to help you confidently fulfil your role, and there will be a dedicated named contact to provide ongoing support and training.

If you would like to learn more about how you can be involved, either as a participant or volunteer, please contact Jenny Street, Volunteering Project Officer on jstreet@sasp.co.uk or call 01823 653990.

For further information on the programme, visit the Move More Together webpage.