Our Community Sports Hub lead recently partnered with Kirkshaws Neighbourhood Centre to support a group of women identified as needing assistance. 

The program was initially set up to trial for six weeks but has grown into an ongoing initiative. Thanks to secured funding covering the cost of an instructor to deliver physical activity sessions, we can continue beyond Christmas and remain committed to supporting this group into the future.

A women's wellbeing and fitness group was established for women aged 17-70 to support those who are inactive, low in confidence, and struggling with their mental health. Many of the participants face financial challenges and are socially and economically inactive.

The group offers free physical activity sessions led by an Active North Lanarkshire instructor for one hour and a second hour focused on activities that support mental health  through the Kirkshaws Neighbourhood Centre including:

• mindfulness activities
• guidance on budgeting
• financial support
• support for getting back into work

The group is located at the Kirkshaws Neighbourhood Centre Coatbridge and meets on Wednesdays from 6pm to 8pm.

Since joining the programme, participants mentioned they have experienced incredible changes including:

• increased physical activity and improved confidence
• building of new friendships and social connections, with many meeting outside the group and forming lifelong bonds
• a strong sense of community and support that didn’t exist before
• greater awareness of Kirkshaws Neighbourhood Centre as a hub for help and resources

The initiative offers more than fitness by providing a safe, supportive space for women to improve their physical health and mental wellbeing while building friendships and confidence at no cost.