Mobility programme helps residents get moving

WOKINGHAM Borough Council has launched a new scheme to get residents “moving with confidence” — and it’s received glowing reviews, writes Charlotte King.

The new programme helps those who have been shielding, or remained isolated, during the coronavirus pandemic to regain their independence and mobility.

Following a pilot scheme last year that supported 87 residents, the council began a 12-month trial in February 2021 and has helped 89 people so far.

Graham Ebers, deputy chief executive of Wokingham Borough Council, said: “The council’s Moving With Confidence scheme is just one of the many ways we are adapting to the current needs of our residents.

“Many of us have had a difficult year and none more so than the elderly who have not had the opportunity to be out and about for much of the last year.”

So far, the scheme has had 150 referrals and the council’s team has made 315 visits in the community.

Jill Lawrence, a resident who has used the programme, said: “The mobility help has been so useful.

“My walking had declined massively over the last year and to have this help has not only boosted my confidence but made a massive improvement to my physical health.”

And Valerie Moon said the support she received was “a most positive form of help”.

According to Wokingham Borough Council, it decided to trial the Moving with Confidence programme last year after witnessing older residents suffering physically due to covid restrictions keeping them indoors.

It said people were at risk of falls, loss of muscle strength and declining confidence.

It launched a new team comprising sports and leisure specialists, community physios, occupational therapists, and volunteers from local charities The Link Visiting Scheme and AgeUK Berkshire.

Marjie Walker, CEO of The Link, said: “After the first lockdown, it was clear that many of our Link Friends hadn’t left their home for many months and no longer felt confident to do the usual things they used to before the crisis hit.

“It has been a pleasure to work with [the council] to improve mobility and confidence with our members and we’ve heard first-hand what a difference it’s made.

“We can’t wait to begin our programme of weekly and monthly activities again and this initiative will ensure we can do that safely.”

The programme is open by referral only.

Residents who could benefit from the Moving With Confidence programme should contact Citizens Advice Wokingham’s One Front Door team on 0808 278 7958 for an assessment or visit citizensadvicewokingham.org.uk/coronavirus

Callers can contact Link Visiting on 0118 979 8019 or Age UK on 0118 959 4242.