Move Together-2

Residents invited to boost their health and well-being with Move Together

Age is no barrier to taking part in Move Together – a free activity programme that provides support for those dealing with long-term health conditions or experiencing poor mobility. With participants ranging from 25 to 104 years old, the Council is calling on residents to get in touch with its Community Wellbeing team and find out if the programme could benefit them. 

Cllr Joy Aitman, Executive Member for Stronger Healthy Communities, said:

“The Move Together project is a real lifeline for many in our communities, as shown by the attendance of over 1,500 people to classes in 2023.  

“We understand how difficult it can be to stay active, particularly for those living with long-term conditions, and getting started can cause a lot of stress and anxiety when managing symptoms or recovering from an injury.  

“The project’s services are vital in helping motivate and support participants every step of the way, with the project co-ordinators working closely with participants to find activities that best suit their individual needs and interests. 

“We want to encourage residents who might benefit from Move Together, to explore the huge range of free activities it has to offer, available both in-person and online. These also include seated exercise classes that are ideal for those with reduced mobility, as well as free Home Activity packs, with the option for home sessions led by specialists, for those unable to attend group classes.” 

Last year, the team delivered 163 free Home Activity packs, and 430 home visits were made by our physical activity specialists. In addition to this, they made nearly 1,800 support calls to residents, and 444 people were introduced to Exercise on Referral at local leisure centres.  

A participant of the Move Together programme said, “It's not just for older people! Day one, I thought it wouldn't be for me... but I was wrong. It has given me confidence that I can do exercise, even with injury and a bad back. If I miss a session or two, I know I need to just carry on. Lisa (the trainer) has been excellent and very encouraging; Angie has been great to talk to and encouraging too.” 

There are several ways to join the Move Together project – a referral from a GP or healthcare professional or self-referral using the form available on the website, or by phoning the team on 01993 861581 or emailing [email protected]

So, if you are living with a long-term health condition, or if you or a group you’re part of could benefit from moving more to improve your physical and mental health, please get in touch today!  

Contact Information

West Oxfordshire District Council Communications Team

[email protected]

Notes to editors

The Move Together project is funded by Oxfordshire County Council Public Health and the Berkshire, Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Integrated Care Board. A further year of funding has been approved, commencing in April 2024.