Staying active brings joy and confidence to support service

A fun way to stay active has become a weekly must for residents who are part of a support service funded by Oxfordshire County Council.

Members who use the Banbury Community Support Service wanted to find a way to stay active, so joined forces with an exercise and nutrition expert, and the Mighty Movers were unleashed.

The Friday group focuses on what people can do and what feels right for them, with a healthy dose of encouragement and laughter with one participant declaring “it’s so nice to exercise again”.

Exercise expert Jane Hawthorn from JaneyHFit (pictured) thoughtfully adapts each session to suit individual abilities, helping people build confidence, maintain strength for everyday living and, most importantly, have fun.

There are also sessions to help the people being supported understand the importance of nutrition, healthy eating and hydration, which affect energy levels, help build muscle and support general health.

Being active and well is an important part of enabling residents to stay in their own environment for longer, happy and healthy, and is part of the Oxfordshire Way.

Mighty Movers is part of the Banbury Community Support Service in Neithrop and is funded by the Well Together Programme. Neithrop is one of 10 priority areas across the county where £1 million has been invested in grassroots groups, local charities and community organisations, helping to strengthen community-led health and wellbeing initiatives.

Councillor Rebekah Fletcher, Cabinet Member for Adults, said: “For many people, traditional exercise settings can feel intimidating or inaccessible.

“There was a desire to create something different, built around encouragement, laughter and the belief that everyone should have the opportunity to move in a way that feels right for them.

“Because the funding is there to create bespoke services, Fridays have become something truly special for residents. What began as a simple wish from the people we support, to find a fun and welcoming way to stay active, has grown into something joyful, inclusive and deeply meaningful.

“These exercise and nutrition sessions are valuable and are helping people feel empowered to look after their wellbeing.

“The sessions are more than exercise, health and wellbeing; they are about connection, confidence, belonging and joy.”

Janey said: “I love the energy that the Mighty Movers group bring and we have so much fun.

“As a qualified exercise referral instructor, I tailor each session to meet the group’s mixed abilities, adapting the movements and equipment where needed. I work closely with the co-ordinator, and the support workers to ensure everyone feels comfortable and included.

“The feedback from the Mighty Movers really means a lot, and I’m grateful to be part of a group who enjoy the sessions as much as I do.”

Banbury residents can get involved in the group by emailing banburycss@oxfordshire.gov.uk

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