Introduction
This piece of work was initiated to explore the relationship between food poverty and physical inactivity. Darlington Baptist Church are a food provider to those in need in the local community. We worked with them and Physique Fitness (a private gym) to give access to physical activity to people living with food insecurity.
What happened?
The church identified an inital co-hort of 16 participants from their food support sessions and from a substance rehabilitation programme which is delivered from the church.
Physique Fitness Instructors initially delivered activity sessions in the church setting, after 3 weeks the sessions were moved into Physique Gym. Transport from the church was provided.
After a further 3 weeks of supported activity in the gym setting, which included an induction to safe use, participants were enabled a 'restricted hours membership' for 4 weeks. This enabled use from 1 pm - 4pm every day of the week and was funded by Tees Valley Sport. Thise who attended regularly were then enabled a further 4 week membership.
The 'afternoon' membership has been offered on an ongoing basis to participants for £8 a month.
8 of the initial co-hort continued to participate at the gym and two of these have signed up for a full membership. The impact on participants has been massive, sighting improvements in their, health, confidence, mental health and sleep quality. They applauded the attittude and 'vibe' at Physique which made them feel welcome and respected.
Physique have really seen the value of what they do. Tees Valley Sport have now worked with Physique to create a pathway for social prescribers in Darlington to refer people with anxieties for physical activity. Tees Valley Sport have supported Physique staff access to Sports Coach UK's Mental Health Support Training which will help their future delivery.
Who was involved?
Corporation Road Baptist Church
Darlington Baptist Church
Roots in Christ Rehab Programme
Physique Fitness
Tees Valley Sport
When?
Since August 2023. It will be long term for those participants who continue to attend Physique.
Where?
In the church hall at Corporation Road Baptist Church and at Physique Gym in Darlington.
How?
The Baptist Ministers identified participants through their food support sessions and through their substance support programme.
Physique Gym were known to the Baptist Ministers. The Gym have a real community focus. This open approach is reflected in the gym's membership who have been really open and supportive of the venture.
Why?
Initially it was to support people who were living with food insecurity and to see if engaging in physical activity could support their resilience.
The reality was that food insecurity was too immediate and narrow a focus for the programme. The commonality between the clients was poor mental health and anxiety. The physical activity intervention was used to erode the cycle.
So?
It shows the capacity of physical activity to support people and change lives.
It demonstrates the willingness of the private sector to engage with the community and to genuinely support people's personal development.
As with most programmes - it is the people that matter and that make it happen.
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