The Health & Wellbeing Team has had an impactful year, championing initiatives that enhance the quality of life for residents across Redbridge. From supporting community integration to providing accessible health and fitness opportunities, here are some of the highlights:
Tennis Court Development
As part of a national LTA funding programme, the LTA and UK Government invested over £30 million to refurbish public tennis courts across Britain. In Redbridge, a partnership with the LTA revitalized local park tennis courts, resulting in Valentines Park being recognized with a regional award for Venue of the Year.
Redbridge Holiday Mega Mix
The Mega Mix programme, commissioned by the London Borough of Redbridge (LBR), offered low-cost activities for children and young people during the Easter and summer holidays. This year, the programme catered to children aged 5-16 years, with extended provision for children with additional needs up to 18 years.
Activities included:
- Adapted Sessions for SEN Children: Cycling, water sports, music, and arts.
- Technology: LEGO robotics, AI art, radio podcasting, and animation.
- Arts and Crafts: Glassblowing, pottery, slime-making, and more.
- Library Sessions: Interactive storytelling and theatre-based activities.
- Dance & Drama: Zumba, Indian dance, and theatre workshops.
- Cinema & Swim for £1: Affordable leisure access.
- Sports: Roller skating, cricket, girls’ football, athletics, and tennis.
- Music: Steel pans, table drumming, and Gamelan workshops.
- Nature Activities: Animal tracking, rope basket making, and primitive technology.
With 54 different activities offered through 421 sessions, 12 film showings, and 325 swimming sessions, the programme created 758 engagement opportunities. A total of 11,583 young people participated, an increase of 1,283 from 2023, including 112 registered with disabilities. The Mega Mix programme has been extended for another 12 months.
Active Body Healthy Mind
The Active Body Healthy Mind project provides free activity taster sessions for adults in Redbridge, encouraging physical and mental wellbeing. Highlights included:
- Group exercise sessions such as Pilates, Zumba, Bollywood dance fitness, and yoga.
- The Dance Fitness Fest, a 2-hour marathon at Sir James Hawkey Hall with 200 participants.
- A Mental Health Awareness Week activity timetable featuring 25 events, developed in collaboration with Vision’s Health & Wellbeing, Sports & Leisure, and Culture and Libraries teams.
The project has been re-commissioned by the Redbridge Institute of Adult Education for delivery through July 2024.
Exercise on Referral and Adult Tier Two Weight Management
The Exercise on Referral (EoR) scheme and Tier Two Weight Management pathways saw a record 3,108 referrals this year. The EoR team worked closely with health professionals to improve accessibility, including establishing a pathway with the Learning Disability Team to create a more inclusive programme for patients.
Homes for Ukraine
Vision hosted a third Ukraine Welcome Event, which included discounted memberships, workshops, and sessions supported by translation services. This initiative continues to foster a welcoming environment for Ukrainian families settling in the borough.
Looking Ahead
The Health & Wellbeing Team continues to make strides in promoting healthier lifestyles and building a more inclusive community. With innovative programmes and partnerships, the team is dedicated to driving positive change and enhancing the wellbeing of Redbridge residents in the year ahead.