Hundreds of residents of all ages have been supported to live healthier lives thanks to community programmes and initiatives delivered and managed by South Cambridgeshire District Council.
From cookery classes to athletics camps, wellbeing walks and cardiac rehab, the Council is committed to inspiring healthier lifestyles for all.
Cllr Henry Batchelor, Lead Cabinet Member for Communities for the District Council, said: “It’s important to help make South Cambridgeshire a healthier, happier place for everyone. We’re proud of the partnerships, volunteers, and residents who made this possible through a wide range of health and wellbeing programmes. These initiatives support physical and mental health, but also strengthen community connections, reduce isolation, and empower individuals to lead more active, fulfilling lives.”
Some of the successful health and wellbeing activities from 2024 – 2025 include:
Cooking up confidence in the kitchen with three family cooking programmes which brought together 35 residents to learn healthy eating habits and practical cooking skills. Children tried new foods, families cooked together, and confidence soared. One resident said: “Many children tried different types of food for the first time, and because they cooked it, they ate it and enjoyed it!”
Strength and balance for seniors thanks to funding from Care Together. Chair-based exercise sessions were introduced in six sheltered housing schemes, benefiting 59 older adults. One participant said: “I have arthritis pain, but after six weeks, the pain eased, and I feel better for it.”
Health and activity advice talks reached over 175 people across 19 venues, including schools, sheltered housing and libraries. The activity talks included helping young people understand the importance of activity in changing focus, having a positive mindset and controlling stress and emotions during two court experience days on the dangers of knife crime.
Over 2,100 students took part in Healthy You Schools Week, with fun challenges and discussions on food and fitness.
Fit ‘n’ Healthy sessions helped 151 Year 5 and 6 pupils understand the link between nutrition and activity.
The Council’s physical activity coordinator supported the annual colour run day and spoke to children about healthy eating, activity. A teacher said: “The colour run, and activity village were a hit – children learned, laughed, and got moving!”
Athletics and netball holiday sport camps welcomed over 775 children aged 7-14, supported by 58 volunteers.
Inclusive events ensured children with disabilities could compete and thrive in outdoor and indoor athletics. These events saw a total of 194 young people get involved.
Two new walking cricket sessions were launched in Melbourn and Cambourne, adding to eight regular walking sports sessions across the district, including football, rugby, and netball.
Nine regular wellbeing walks now take place across the district, with three new routes added this year and 37 new walkers joined, enjoying safe, social, and supportive strolls.
Grants of £8,300 supported activities for people with conditions like Parkinson’s, cancer, and anxiety. One participant with Parkinson’s said: “My balance is improved as is my tremor and arm strength. The classes lift my mood and make me feel positive. My consultant said my condition is stable – I believe the classes made the difference.”
Exercise4Fun sessions at local leisure centres across the district saw 91 people join, with 14 achieving significant weight loss. One participant shared: “After a near-fatal accident, I gained weight and lost confidence. Now, I’ve lost over 5 stone and feel healthier and happier than ever.”
A total of 257 patients were referred to the Active & Healthy 4 Life exercise scheme with 102 completing the four-month programme and making exercise part of their daily lifestyle.
A new cardiac rehab class in Cambourne supported 18 patients on their recovery journey.
Find out more about the Exercise Referral scheme, the Cardiac Phase 4 rehabilitation referral scheme, holiday sports camps for young people or email AandH4L@scambs.gov.uk
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