Kicking off movement at L&Q Trafford schemes
Ahead of Falls Prevention Week, L&Q share how their chair-based classes support residents' strength, balance and mobility, supporting them to live well.
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Residents in Trafford are moving more and feeling better thanks to new weekly exercise sessions delivered by housing association L&Q in partnership with Altrincham Football Club.
The chair-based classes, which started in June, support strength, balance and mobility, with a focus on falls prevention to help older residents stay active and independent.
All classes are tailored to participants’ specific or individual ability or needs and participants are encouraged only to do what they feel comfortable with.
There’s a relaxed, friendly atmosphere with opportunities to connect and socialise afterwards making them a popular part of the week at Millom Court, Leverett Close, and Limelight.
Led by the team from Altrincham FC Community Sports, the sessions offer physical benefits and a chance for residents to socialise and connect in a supportive setting.
The programme is backed by Assura, a healthcare property company supporting community wellbeing through its dedicated fund, and is part of Altrincham FC’s wider wellbeing work.
Rachel Fithon, Scheme Manager at Millom Court, said:
“It’s been brilliant to see the difference these sessions are making – not just physically, but socially too. Residents have really welcomed them, and there’s a great sense of energy and community in the room.”
Simon Dow, from Altrincham FC Community Sports, added:
“We’re delighted to be taking our popular senior exercise classes into the local community with support from Assura. These sessions help with balance, coordination, strength and confidence – and play an essential role in preventing falls and the injuries that can come with them.
“The support from L&Q in allowing our instructors into schemes has been a key part of the success so far, and we’re excited to continue building this partnership.”
The initiative supports L&Q’s wider commitment to helping older residents age well.
Community Development Leads and L&Q Living colleagues are working closely to bring in trusted partners and expand wellbeing activities across their homes and neighbourhoods.
Liana Brown, Get Set Go, Activity Project Manager, said:
“The sessions have created a real sense of togetherness. At Millom Court, the ladies are really enjoying being challenged by the instructor and are finding the classes incredibly beneficial.
“Over at Leverett, participants are loving the sessions too, they’re feeling that satisfying ache from real activity, not boredom!
“It’s heartening to see the community spirit growing, with residents laughing together, gaining confidence, and truly engaging. We’d love to see this spread across more schemes.”
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