Free and active support sessions for unpaid carers

February 24, 2021

Unpaid carers will get free physical activity sessions after Southend-on-Sea Borough Council teamed up with Sport for Confidence to provide support.

A recent survey of carers in Southend found the four main ways carers said their health had been affected by their role was feeling tired (85%), general feeling of stress (80%), disturbed sleep (67%), and feeling depressed (59%). Physical activity is known to improve sleep, manage stress and overall improve quality of life. 

Sport for Confidence are providing tailored virtual sessions for carers that supports physical, mental and social health through activities and exercise. All sessions will be active, fun, accessible and free.

Sessions will be taking place on Mondays and Thursdays via Zoom, so you can join in from your own home. The project gives carers  the opportunity to access great support from the coaches and occupational therapists from Sport for Confidence and to connect with other carers.

Cllr Trevor Harp, cabinet member for health and adult social care, said: “I encourage unpaid carers to take part in this wonderful opportunity as it is so important they take time for their mental and physical health. Making sure you stay active and take care of your health has always been important, more so now than ever with the current situation.

“The online sessions help to break down barriers by participating in physical activity and promoting independence, thereby improving confidence and self-esteem. This will enable participants to gain the full physical and mental benefits of physical activity.”

Siobhan Fuller, Sport for Confidence Occupational Therapist Southend-on-Sea Lead, said; “Our carers sessions have got off to a brilliant start. So far, our ‘virtual wake up walk’ has enabled us to explore the sites of London and we even managed the 1.33 miles to the end of Southend Pier! We use every day household objects in our sessions and we share tips to keep active throughout our daily routines. Sessions are catered for individuals with limited mobility. Please do get in touch and find out how we can support you.”