Live Longer Better Network News – Issue No.19 August 2026

Green Social Prescribing Guidance

Are you involved in supporting people’s health and wellbeing through nature? For example, in a community garden, walking group or outdoor mental health sessions?

If so, the Green Social Prescribing Practitioner Guidance explains what you need to put in place to accept social prescribing referrals safely, helping to reduce risk and ensure people are connected to the right activity, at the right time, in the right way. (Photo credit: National Academy for Social Prescribing)

Follow this link to access the guidance

Health and Nature Network

The Health and Nature Network brings together organisations across Kent and Medway to strengthen nature‑based wellbeing. It connects environmental providers, health professionals, link workers and community organisations so more people can benefit from the proven wellbeing benefits of spending time in nature.

The Network recently funded 23 free nature‑based wellbeing projects across the county; supported practitioner training, including Level 3 Nature‑Based Practice qualifications; helped social prescribers link people more confidently to local nature‑based activities; connected partners to help shape a shared approach to nature‑based wellbeing across Kent and Medway. (Photo credit: Explore Kent)

Follow this link to find out more and join the Network

Forever Active Kent

Coordinated by Kent County Council and Active Kent & Medway, the Forever Active Kent Service helps older adults, aged 50 and older, to increase and maintain their strength, flexibility, balance and coordination in a place and time that suits them. As part of this service, a number of local organisations and community groups have been supported to offer FREE activity programmes from 1 April 2026 for people aged 50+ in their local community.

Swale Community and Voluntary Services is one of the organisations who’s been delivering Chair-based exercise and yoga programme to their local community. Find out how the programme has improved wellbeing and social connection.

Follow this link to read more

Hotshotz Tennis

Hotshotz Tennis offer a variety of inclusive exercise sessions based around tennis movements. No previous tennis experience is needed. They have an exciting programme of activities across a number of Kent venues, designed to enhance movement skills and enrich overall wellbeing. Choose from:

• Exercise for Adults 50+
• Parkinson’s sessions
• SEN classes
• Tennis / Padel / Pickleball courses

For more information, please contact Caroline Cheesman on 07544 872723 or email: admin@hotshotztennis.co.uk (Photo credit: Hotshotz Tennis)

Follow this link to find out more

Sofa to Saddle

Start cycling with help from Sofa to Saddle: a fun and free way to gradually get more active. Across eight weeks, the app-based programme, powered by Lloyds Bank and British Cycling, will help you to start riding your bike more often, with confidence and enjoyment.

Sofa to Saddle is all about turning intention into action. From distance goals and suggested routes, through to motivation, tips and advice: we’ll give you the support you need to get in the saddle. You’ll build strength with simple off-bike activities, and receive check-ins along the way to stay on track and see your progress build, week by week.

Follow this link to download the app

WeRoam

WeRoam is a free app that gets you outside and exploring. It’s for anyone who wants to walk, wheel, or cycle a bit more, discover what’s on their doorstep, and feel better for it. No gym required.

Collect virtual markers hidden across your local area, little nudges that take you somewhere new. Every walk, wheel, or cycle earns you Roam Points. Log journeys, hit milestones, unlock rewards, and level up. Take on weekly and monthly challenges which are inclusive, low-pressure, and designed to keep things interesting.

Follow this link to download the app