We are investing £450k in targeted activities across Reading, delivered by our leisure partners GLL, to help reduce health inequalities.
A physical activity referral scheme is on offer, with weight management courses, cardiac and cancer rehabilitation, alongside supporting other health initiatives in the borough such as walking groups.
The ‘Healthwise’ scheme aims to support Reading residents with medical conditions preventing them from becoming physically inactive – such as high blood pressure, diabetes, asthma, circulatory diseases or depression and anxiety.
The scheme offers a range of activities to suit all abilities and includes gym-based supervised sessions, group exercise options such as ‘Easyline’ and water-based exercise sessions.
Reading resident Paul Robinson is someone who has recently benefited from our investment in targeted health services.
Paul, age 70, from West Reading, was referred to GLL’s ‘Healthwise’ scheme in September 2021 by the Royal Berkshire Hospital’s Cardiac Rehabilitation team. Duncan, GLL’s Healthwise co-ordinator, and his team, met with Paul to work out how best they could support him and what exercise he would benefit from. The one-to-one support lasted 12 weeks via supervised gym sessions.
Watch Paul here talking about his journey to recovery following heart bypass surgery:
If you, or someone you know, is interested in Healthwise you can speak to your GP, practice nurse or Social prescribing link worker, who can refer you.
For more information email Healthwise.Reading@GLL.ORG