Age Concern Hampshire, a charity focused on providing services to the older community in Hampshire, has recently announced the expansion of its social groups into the New Forest. This development is made possible through a partnership with SNG (Sovereign Network Group), who will serve as an ambassador and match funder for the Hampshire Active Health Programme. The expansion will see the establishment of new social groups for residents in selected SNG New Forest schemes.
Funding for this initiative has been provided by Hampshire County Council and support from the physical activity charity, Energise Me. The first phase of the project, which was successfully implemented in Basingstoke, will be followed by a second phase starting in early autumn. This will see the program extended to various locations throughout the New Forest area, with both phases set to run until early 2025.
The aim of this project is to make it easier for everyone to engage in social and physical activities, promoting a happier, healthier, and stronger future for local communities. Regular physical activity has been proven to support both physical and mental health, and it is essential for individuals to strive to be active every day. This is especially important for those facing health inequalities, who are often less likely to participate in physical activities, putting them at a higher risk of developing long-term health conditions and mental health challenges.
In order to support this expansion, Age Concern Hampshire is actively seeking dedicated volunteers to help grow its community social groups. Volunteers play a vital role in leading activities, providing companionship, and creating a welcoming environment for participants. Those interested in making a positive impact in their community can call 01962 868545 or visit the Age Concern Hampshire website for more information.
Marta Rios, Community Investment and Partnerships Manager at SNG, expressed their vision to provide good, affordable homes and develop resilient and thriving communities. She also highlighted the strong link between health and housing and the investment of £100 million in their communities to empower people living in their homes and create a positive social impact.
Emily Khural, Health Manager at Energise Me, expressed her pleasure in supporting SNG’s mission to bring accessible and enjoyable physical activity to their older residents, so they can experience the physical, mental, and social benefits of being physically active.
Brogan Rehill, Head of Fundraising and Volunteer Services for Age Concern Hampshire, shared their excitement in working with SNG to support older residents within their Housing for Older Persons (HOP) Schemes. She mentioned the various activities and services offered by the charity’s community groups, including fun activities, physical activities, and access to guest speakers.
Founded in 1985, Age Concern Hampshire provides a range of services to support the older community in Hampshire. This includes care and wellbeing centers, help at home, information through their Information Hub, foot care clinics, and other activities. The charity also relies on volunteers to deliver its services and is always looking for dedicated individuals to join their team.
SNG (Sovereign Network Group) was formed in October 2023 through the merger of Sovereign and Network Homes. The organization’s purpose is to provide good, affordable homes and create thriving communities over generations. They currently provide over 84,000 homes and aim to create thousands of new affordable homes every year.
The Hampshire Active Health Programme, managed by Energise Me on behalf of Hampshire County Council, aims to support people at greater risk of negative impacts from the pandemic and protect the most vulnerable from Covid-19. This is made possible through funding from the Contain Outbreak Management Fund (COMF) from the Department of Health and Social Care.
Energise Me, a charity funded by Sport England and the National Lottery, is dedicated to championing physical activity for all in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Their goal is to create a happier, healthier, and stronger future for local people by making it easier for everyone to move more.
