Being active when you’re a carer can be more challenging. That’s why Carers UK are running Carers Active April. This month long campaign aims to support unpaid carers to be physically active and raise awareness of the benefits of physical activity for carers and the barriers they may face.
Research from Carers UK found that 67% of unpaid carers said taking part in physical activity helped them feel more connected to other people, and 73% said that being physically active makes them feel good about themselves.
The month will raise awareness about the importance of physical activity and provide lots of opportunities for carers to be active. You’ll be supported and encouraged to take part in any activity that works for you, whether that’s walking, jogging, yoga or simple exercises around your home and garden.
Energising Fitness with Kelly – Thursday 3 April, 10-10.45am
Get your body moving with a fun and accessible fitness session to help re-energise your week. The class led by professional instructor Kelly Harman, will help improve your mobility, strength and stamina with movements which you can use in everyday life. The class is open to all abilities and fitness levels so all you need is your own body and a small space. Book here
Adapted Tai Chi and Mindful Movements with Sandra – Wednesday 16 April, 3-4pm
A Tai Chi and gentle movements session with Sandra Shaw, a Clinical Exercise Specialist. Join Sandra, who will demonstrate simple movements designed to improve mobility, balance and a general sense of wellbeing. No experience is needed and the session is open to all fitness levels.
Find activities and groups to support your being active in Lincolnshire.
Carers First in Lincolnshire are putting on a number of events for Carers Active April. All the events are available for members of Carers First Lincolnshire.
If you’re an unpaid carer aged over 16 in Lincolnshire, Carers First Lincolnshire can offer you support with online help and advice as well as 1-2-1 practical and emotional support.
If you find it difficult to get away from your caring role, why not try to find an activity you can enjoy with the person you care for with a free day at your local Everyone Active centre.
You can accompany the person you care for at no extra charge at our specialist classes and activities, which include an opportunity to socialise and a refreshment with other carers at our community cafes at the end of the sessions.
Throughout April, Better GLL have lots of opportunities for carers to be active, with support along the way. Members of Carers UK, and anyone who is in receipt of Carer’s Allowance can take advantage of discounted membership of £30 per month between 1 April – 6 May. If you’d like to take advantage of this offer please get in touch with Shaun.Fisher@gll.org.
There are also existing memberships available for people in receipt of Carer’s Allowance, including the Better Flex Adult Concessionary (for £5 a month you can enjoy one free activity a month and discount on additional bookings).
Follow the link to find out more about sessions at this centre.
To access the special offers listed on this page, you might be asked to prove that you are a carer.
You can do this by showing:
Wellbeing Walks are short walks, led by friendly, specially trained volunteer walk leaders, who are on hand to provide encouragement and support. Lincolnshire Co-op supports over 60 walks across Lincolnshire and Newark. Starting and finishing at the same location, all walks are free of charge, lasting between 30 and 90 minutes.
Wellbeing walks are inclusive and welcoming of all ages and fitness levels. They are also some walks that specifically cater for people with certain health conditions or disabilities as well.
Nettleham Sensory Stroll, 12pm first Thursday of every month.
Meet at Nettleham Village Hall
Boultham Park Sensory Stroll, (2nd Wednesday of every month)
Starts from Boultham Park House Care Home, Rookery Lane, LN6 7PH (meets at the back gate adjoining the park)
Whisby Nature Park, meet at the Natural World Centre, every Monday, 10.30 – 11.30
This walk is specifically tailored for the visually impaired, but may be suitable for other disabilities also.
There’s no need to book, but if you would like more details get in touch with Lincolnshire co-op Wellbeingwalks@lincolnshire.coop or telephone 01522 544 632.
Find Wellbeing Walks and other led walks near you on our Activity Finder or follow the link below for more information about wellbeing walks.
Walking is one of the easiest ways to be active. You don’t need any special equipment to get started and you can fit it into your existing routine.
Find tips and ideas to get started and places to walk on our walking pages.
Julie has danced her whole life, when she developed Alzheimer’s, however, she had a harder time staying active in ways she always loved. Together with her husband Peter, who cares for her, she has taken up running, which allows them both to stay active and socialise with the wider community. Watch their video to find out more.
