Chair-Based Exercise and Yoga Programme

With support from Forever Active Kent Service, Swale Community & Voluntary Services (Swale CVS) delivered a Chair-Based Exercise and Yoga programme for people aged 55+ across Swale. The funding covered qualified instructors, venue hire, equipment and programme coordination, enabling the delivery of safe, accessible and inclusive physical activity sessions.

The programme was promoted through strong local partnerships with the Swale Seniors Forum, Social Prescribers, Community Wardens, local charities and community organisations. These partnerships helped identify and engage older adults experiencing loneliness, social isolation, reduced mobility, long-term health conditions or a lack of confidence in attending mainstream physical activity opportunities. Sessions focused on improving strength, balance, mobility and flexibility, whilst also creating regular opportunities for social connection, friendship and community involvement.

For Participants

• Supported older adults to become more confident in being physically active.
• Improved mobility, strength, balance and flexibility through regular participation.
• Reduced feelings of loneliness and social isolation.
• Improved mental wellbeing by providing enjoyable activities and regular social interaction.

For Swale CVS

• Strengthened evidence of need and impact, supporting future funding applications.
• Increased confidence and experience in delivering inclusive physical activity programmes.
• Upskilled staff and volunteers through working alongside experienced instructors.
• Attracted new participants who had not previously engaged with Swale CVS services.

“The programme has made a real difference to older adults in our community by helping them become more active, improve their wellbeing and build social connections. It has strengthened our partnerships, increased our confidence to deliver inclusive activities and helped us reach people who may otherwise have remained isolated.” Swale CVS

Many participants joined the programme feeling nervous about attending a new activity or concerned that their mobility would prevent them from taking part. The chair-based format helped remove these barriers by providing a welcoming, supportive and accessible environment.

As confidence grew, participants became more engaged, formed friendships and developed regular routines around attending sessions. For many, the social aspect was just as valuable as the physical activity, providing meaningful connections and helping people feel part of their community again.

The programme demonstrated that when activities are designed to be inclusive and accessible, older adults can experience significant physical, social and wellbeing benefits regardless of their starting point.

“It’s not just about the exercise it’s the friendships we’re making along the way.” Participant

“Since joining the programme, I feel healthier, happier and more positive. It’s given me a reason to get out each week.” Participant

One of the biggest challenges was encouraging isolated older adults to take the first step and attend a new activity. Many lacked confidence, worried about mobility issues or were hesitant about joining a group. Swale CVS addressed this by working closely with local partners and through its Befriending Service, providing reassurance, encouragement and support before participants attended.

Ensuring activities were suitable for a wide range of abilities also required careful planning. Working with experienced instructors and delivering chair-based activities ensured sessions could be adapted to meet individual needs.

• Partnership working is essential

Strong referral pathways through Social Prescribers, Community Wardens, the Swale Seniors Forum and local community organisations were vital in reaching older adults most at risk of isolation and inactivity.

• Accessible activities increase engagement

Chair-based exercise and yoga provided an inclusive way for people with different abilities and confidence levels to participate and experience the benefits of being active.

• Personal encouragement matters

Many participants needed reassurance and support before attending. Trusted relationships with staff, volunteers and partners were critical in helping people overcome barriers and get involved.

“Thank you for helping me realise that you’re never too old to get active.” Participant

Swale CVS is building on the success of the programme by embedding physical activity opportunities within its wider Befriending Service and community support offer.

The organisation will continue to:

• Use participant feedback to support future funding applications.
• Strengthen partnerships and referral networks across Swale.
• Develop further opportunities for older adults to stay active, connected and independent.
• Use the skills and experience gained through the programme to expand inclusive activity provision.

The project has demonstrated the value of accessible physical activity for older adults and provides a strong foundation for future delivery.