Charitable leisure trust, Mytime Active has launched Prime8-25, an innovative free eight-week membership designed for older adults in the Bromley area who are new to its over 60s Primetime programme.
Prime8-25 gives eligible participants full access to Mytime Active’s comprehensive range of activities, both at its leisure centres and its classes held in community spaces. The initiative also has funded outreach opportunities for Mytime Active’s Primetime (over 60’s) team to visit dementia cafes, wellbeing cafes and older people groups across the borough to talk about the benefits of exercise and offer taster sessions.
The programme is designed to help older residents build confidence gradually, starting with welcoming community-based classes before exploring the wider range of leisure facilities available at Mytime Active’s centres, including using the gym or having a swim.
Funded through Bromley Council’s Innovation Fund, Prime8-25 is especially aimed at people new to exercise or getting back to exercise, as well as those struggling with health issues, including dementia. To enhance the experience for newcomers, Mytime Active has recruited two new dedicated volunteer Primetime Buddies, who provide a friendly face to meet and greet participants at its community spaces.
Ann Wilbourn, Mytime Active’s Primetime Manager, said: “We understand that taking the first step towards a more active lifestyle can be daunting for many older adults. Prime8-25 removes barriers by offering a supportive, friendly environment where people can try out different activities to find something they enjoy and build confidence at their own pace. Our volunteer buddies make all the difference in helping newcomers feel immediately welcome and part of our community too.
“The enthusiasm we’ve seen from our partners shows just how needed this approach is. We have already registered 67 people for the free Prime8-25 membership through community partnership referrals, including the Falls Prevention Group, local social prescribers, wellbeing cafes, Clarion Housing, Age UK, Young Onset Dementia Group, St
James Dementia Café in Petts Wood, Home Instead, and local church coffee mornings. We’re very proud to be connecting with people who might otherwise not have access to leisure facilities and experience the physical and social benefits they bring.”
To see if you’re eligible for the free eight-week programme please contact Ann directly: [email protected]
Mytime Active’s Primetime programme runs more than 100 sessions each week across 12 leisure and community venues.
