Seated sports sessions helping older residents stay active and connected
Residents in retirement living homes are benefitting from inclusive seated sports sessions thanks to funding from our Community Chest programme.
Worcestershire Cricket Foundation has been awarded funds to continue delivering its seated multi sport programme at four of our housing schemes, including Meadow Court on Darwin Avenue.
The sessions are designed to support people who may not feel able to take part in traditional sports activities due to mobility, confidence or other barriers, helping residents to stay active while also reducing loneliness and improving wellbeing.
The programme has already received positive feedback from participants and scheme colleagues, with many residents reporting improved confidence, increased social interaction and better physical wellbeing.
The funding will support 21 weeks of sessions across the four sites, benefitting around 75 residents, all of whom are our customers.
Elsa- Marie Evans, Head of Community Programmes at Worcestershire Cricket Foundation said: “The seated multi sport sessions have already had a hugely positive impact on residents taking part. We’ve seen people who we’ve been told don’t normally join in with activities getting involved, building confidence and enjoying being active in a supportive environment.
“The sessions are about much more than exercise, they create opportunities for friendship, laughter and social connection, which are incredibly important for wellbeing. We’re delighted to be continuing the programme with support from Platform Housing Group.”
Feedback from participants has highlighted both the physical and emotional benefits of the sessions with one resident commenting: “Never laughed so much for as long as I can remember and I don’t want the sessions to stop!”
Another participant added: “At 94, laughter is a wonderful addition to games which aid mobility. Enjoyed the seated sport very much, could do with more of the same!”
Paul Edwards, our Community Engagement Officer said: “The feedback we’ve received about these sessions has been fantastic. They are helping residents stay active, improve confidence and build friendships in a fun and welcoming environment.
“Projects like this play an important role in tackling loneliness and supporting wellbeing, particularly for older residents who may otherwise struggle to access physical activity opportunities. We’re very pleased to be able to support the continuation of the programme.”
The Worcestershire Cricket Foundation programme will continue running throughout 2026, with further feedback and case studies planned to help measure the long term impact of the classes.
Our Community Chest fund supports a wide range of local projects focused on wellbeing, inclusion, community cohesion and opportunities for local people. The pot is for our customers and local charities, clubs and other not-for-profit organisations for any projects directly benefitting our customers; all applications are assessed against specific eligibility criteria by customers who sit on our Customer Voice Panel.
Photo caption : Residents taking part in a seated sport session