Event to help residents with long-term health conditions get active

Derbyshire Dales District Council is inviting residents with long-term health conditions to discover enjoyable and accessible ways to improve their health and wellbeing at a free Move More, Feel Better event.

The event, which will take place at Arc Leisure Centre, Matlock, from 11am to 3pm on 18 November is the third and final festival in a series funded through Public Health Localities Funding.

While the first two festivals focused on adults with disabilities, this event is dedicated to people living with long-term health conditions such as COPD, cancer, stroke, heart conditions, arthritis, musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions and multiple sclerosis (MS).

Organised by the District Council's Active Dales team, the event is designed to help people find simple, enjoyable ways to become more active, whether they are taking their first steps towards a healthier lifestyle or looking for activities that better suit their needs and abilities.

Working with Freedom Leisure and a range of community providers, the event will showcase the many opportunities available locally for people with long-term health conditions.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of free taster sessions throughout the day, including Dancing for Health, Age UK's Strong & Steady programme, chair-based ballet, Pilates, health circuits, aqua rehab swim sessions and guided health walks.

There will also be opportunities to try walking football (run by the Mental Health Initiative), walking netball and walking pickleball in a friendly and supportive environment.

Alongside the activities, attendees will be able to meet local health and wellbeing organisations, learn about services available in the area and find out how regular physical activity can help improve confidence, independence and overall wellbeing.

A spokesperson for Derbyshire Dales District Council said: "Taking the first step towards being more active can feel daunting, especially when you're living with a long-term health condition. Move More, Feel Better is all about helping people discover activities they enjoy and showing that there is plenty of support available locally.

"Whether you'd like to build strength, improve your confidence, meet new people or simply find a fun way to move more, there will be something for everyone. We hope visitors leave feeling inspired, informed and encouraged to take the next step on their wellbeing journey."

Attendance is free, but places are limited and booking is required.

Bookings open on 4 November. To book a place, call 01629 581322.

For more information about the event, contact Katie Burns on 01629 761389 or email [email protected]