NHS Norfolk is encouraging people in north Norfolk to join their local Workout Project, to improve their long-term health and their local environment.
The North Norfolk Workout Project is delivered by conservation volunteering charity BTCV for North Norfolk District Council.
Lucy Macleod, NHS Norfolk’s Consultant in Public Health, said: “The North Norfolk Workout Project is an enjoyable way to a more active life, and we would encourage anyone interested to find out more.
“You will be improving your own long-term health and also benefitting your community. It’s also a good way to socialise and make new friends, which can contribute to an overall healthier lifestyle.”
The scheme is run with additional funding and support from Natural England through Access to Nature as part of the Big Lottery Fund’s Changing Spaces Programme, NHS Norfolk and the North Norfolk Community Partnership.
Activities are organised later this month at North Walsham, Cromer and Holt, among others.
Mark Webster, project officer, said: “The North Norfolk Workout Project only began less than a year ago, but our volunteers have already made a substantial difference to their environment.
“Activities have included a variety of work at sites in North Walsham, Cromer and Holt, as well as learning more about wildlife by doing a seaweed survey at West Runton and birdwatching at Blakeney.
“Anyone over 16 is welcome to volunteer, and anyone who has physical, sensory or learning difficulties, mental health or long-term medical conditions is particularly welcome.”
Volunteers also aiming to complete at least three ‘Community Challenges’ in north Norfolk each year which could involve clearing and improving access to a local open space. They welcome suggestions for future projects.
“North Norfolk District Council (NNDC)was very pleased to obtain the funding for this project,” said Penny Bevan Jones, NNDC’s Cabinet member with responsibility for health.
“The Council provides a range of opportunities for people to improve their health and well being such as leisure and sports centres, the Time of Your Life mobile gym and Fit Together walking and activities. The Workout Project offers another way for people to get active as well as improve the environment and we are delighted that so many people have already taken part.”
Nick Clarke, of Active Norfolk, said: “We are moving away from the traditional sport model of people becoming more active. There are lots of different ways for people to increase their amount of physical activity.
“We recommend conservation activities because we find their volunteers exercise without really knowing it – because it’s so enjoyable. It’s free to take part, and helps the environment at the same time.”
For more details on how you can join the North Norfolk Project call Mark on 01263 516 336 or visit: www.btcv.org./norfolk
To find out more about other activities and initiatives across the NHS Norfolk locality which can support you to lead an active, healthy lifestyle, call the NHS Norfolk Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) on 0800 587 4132, or visit: www.norfolk.nhs.uk/pals/index.html
