Project boosting health and wellbeing through outdoor activities receives vital UKSPF funding
Last updated: 29/8/2024
A project delivering free outdoor activities in Rushcliffe to help improve people’s health and wellbeing and reduce isolation and loneliness has received a vital funding boost from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).
Rushcliffe Borough Council (RBC) allocated UKSPF funding to the Canal & River Trust’s Waterways & Wellbeing project that is delivering a wide range of wellbeing activities on or by waterways, open to all adults. Activities include paddleboarding, canoeing, walks, cycling, arts & crafts and volunteering.
The funding has enabled the Trust’s Wellbeing Coordinator to develop a year-round programme of activities at Cotgrave, Holme Pierrepont, Hickling and Gamston and encourage volunteering to support the sessions and ensure its long-term sustainability.
The Trust is working in partnership with the Rushcliffe Primary Care Network and the Rushcliffe Social Prescribing Team to run the blue social prescribing sessions aimed at improving participant’s physical wellbeing by increasing physical activity levels.
The sessions also aim to further help people’s mental wellbeing through offering safe and welcoming spaces for people to socialise and develop lasting friendships and connections.
Research findings from the Trust have shown that water-based activities have a positive impact on participants on a range of outcomes including overall wellbeing levels, self-efficacy and self-reported health levels.
For those wanting to take part, further paddle sessions will take place at the National Watersports Centre in September and cycling activities are happening at multiple locations over autumn. Further walks, arts & crafts and volunteering sessions are being planned.
For more details, or to book a session, contact the Trust’s Community Wellbeing Coordinator, Carol Burrell, at carol.burrell@canalrivertrust.org.uk.
RBC’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Business and Growth Cllr Abby Brennan recently joined the Canal & River Trust, volunteers and participants at one of the free paddleboarding sessions at Holme Pierrepont County Park.
Cllr Brennan said: “We’re pleased our allocation of UKSPF funding to this project is making a positive difference for Rushcliffe residents by providing opportunities to get involved in a fantastic range of free activities based on and near waterways.
“The funding also ensures the longevity of this programme by helping to build a base of volunteers to help deliver the sessions for more years to come.
“It’s wonderful to see so many people enjoying the activities such as paddleboarding here at Holme Pierrepont. They are a great way to boost our health and wellbeing, reduce social isolation and loneliness and connect with nature.
“This project contributes to our Corporate Priorities for Quality of Life where we know access to green and blue spaces contributes to improvements in public health.
“There are still more free sessions taking place this September so why not find out more and give it a go!”
Regional Director for the Canal & River Trust Linny Beaumont added: “Research shows that time spent by water helps us to feel happier and healthier, and our Waterways & Wellbeing programme helps local people to feel these benefits for themselves.
“As a charity it’s vital that we get support to protect our historic waterways and ensure that people can enjoy them for generations to come. We’re incredibly grateful to Rushcliffe Borough Council for securing this funding that will make a very real difference to the lives of people taking part in the programme.”
