These humble buildings where people meet, learn, exercise, relax and volunteer could, in their own way, help us achieve the NHS’ 5 steps to mental well-being. Here’s how they keep us active…
STEP 1: Be Active – being active is not only great for your physical health and fitness. Evidence also shows it can also improve your mental well-being
When it comes to keeping active, the list of activities to choose from is as long as your arm at Viables, Roger Morris and Rucstall. With everything from Kickboxing, Kettle Bell, Rock Box and Zumba, to name but a few.
For those groups facing barriers there’s a hugely popular Move It or Lose It aimed at the over 60s (attracting 30 regulars!) where the routines can be carried out seated or standing.
The Memory Club run Tovertafel sessions where visual cues are projected onto a table and participants are invited to physically interact. Luan tells me this is an innovative way to encourage movement in those experiencing dementia. The Tovertafel equipment was acquired through National Lottery Funding, she advised.
Kate at St Faith’s Hub tell me they ‘run exercise classes with Be Active such as 12 weeks of free Line Dancing for Beginners, Seated Dance and Keep Fit Classes’.
Read how community halls help us Connect
Read more about the NHS’ 5 steps to well-being and Village Halls Week 2026 campaign
