A NEW programme of free activities to encourage older people to get active has been unveiled this week.

The project for people registered with local GPs, is a joint venture by the NHS Dorset CCG, the Christchurch and East Dorset Partnership and Dorset Partnership for Older People Programme.

Local GP and chair of the east Dorset locality of Dorset CCG, Dr Colin Davidson, said: “Both as a GP and member of the CCG, I am keen to get behind anything that promotes the benefits of getting active and am pleased that we are supporting the Activate East Dorset initiative.”

Activities include wellness walks, as pictured above, which take around half an hour, and aim to improve stamina led by a qualified fitness instructor from surgeries at West Moors, Ferndown, Verwood and Wimborne.

There are also chair-based exercises classes, six week community based courses, to promote strength, balance and mobility.

The Green Referral Scheme is a 12 -week exercise programme which includes four one-to-one consultations with a qualified consultant, a bespoke exercise programme and regular follow up sessions to assess improvement.

Access to this project is through either a health professional’s referral (Active 4 Health referral form) or self-referrals within certain criteria.

For details call 01425 470721 or email active4health@christchurchandeastdorset.gov.uk