A virtual service delivering physical activity sessions to individuals with long-term health conditions has been given the green light to continue.

‘Stay Connected’ has been designed and managed by occupational therapists and sports coaches from Sport For Confidence and, despite the Covid-19 pandemic, it has been providing inclusive and critical support to people in need across Essex via Zoom.

Thanks to new funding from Essex Country Council the programme will continue until the end of November at least.

ROUTINE

Since the service was launched earlier this year, the Sport for Confidence team has conducted more than 3,500 telephone interventions, covering topics relating to the challenges presented by social isolation and occupational disruption such as: how to establish a daily routine; the importance of self-care, healthy eating, rest and physical activity; goal-setting and alternative ways to engage with family, friends and neighbours.

In addition to the telephone support, Stay Connected has also delivered more than 1,000 physical activity sessions and engaged more than 950 adults across Essex. All sessions are designed and delivered by Sport For Confidence coaches and are tailored to accommodate the bespoke needs of the participants, many of whom would be left isolated and inactive without this service.

Activities are varied and include seated exercise, sing and stretch, multi sports, dance and football skills.

Sport For Confidence is a Community Interest Company that places occupational therapists alongside sports coaches in mainstream leisure venues to deliver inclusive physical activity sessions for those who face barriers to participation.

The impact of Covid-19 has affected the daily routine of many vulnerable adults across the county, so this service has ensured vital support has been able to continue.

“Many of our participants are isolated and living with long-term health conditions,” said Lyndsey Barrett, the founder of Sport For Confidence.

CONNECTION

“For them, a return to everyday activities is not yet possible due to the threat to life that the virus poses.

“As a result, Stay Connected remains a lifeline for many, providing a means of keeping active whilst isolating and enabling the maintenance of a meaningful connection with the outside world.”

Michelle Brown, head of commissioning for adults with learning disabilities and autism at Essex County Council, said: “We are delighted to support this excellent specialist programme.

HEALTHY

“Stay Connected will continue to help adults with learning disabilities and/or autism and other adults who may be isolated and not able to access other support, to remain happy and healthy in their home environment.

“We truly believe physical activity and exercise should be available to everyone and this extension will continue the good work that started earlier in the year.”

For information about the programme and to view the full list of scheduled Zoom physical activity sessions, click here.

Find out more on the Sport for Confidence page on the ConnectSport directory. To add your organisation for free, contact hello@connectsport.co.uk.