Five Lamps have been running a very successful project at The Youthy for people aged 50+ who live within-in Stockton.
We have worked with over 20 adults in a variety of activities, with extremely positive feedback.
The first activity undertaken by the group was at Aerial Extreme a high ropes course in Bedale, which proved to be a fantastic day out. One of the ladies, who attended the session, was very nervous and unsure at putting her trust into the harness and the equipment to keep her safe at such a height. However with lots of encouragement and determination, she successfully completed the whole course and said
“I felt great afterwards”
The next activity took place at Castle Gate Quay for a session of Bell Boating. Everyone had really good fun and there were many laughs as we went round. A few aching arms followed the session, which just proves how good it is as a form of exercise!
A session on The Youthy’s climbing wall saw a lady with vertigo overcome her fear of heights and make it to the top of the wall which was amazing. One of the ladies was not going to take part in the climbing, initially coming along to support the others, however with a little persuasion and encouragement, she completed the climbs along with the others and really enjoyed herself.
She said
“Fab, fit and 50 is a great opportunity to try activities that are not usually available; you get support from others in the class and constant encouragement”
We acted upon suggestions for running a Zumba class in The Youthy, which after just 2 weeks has had 26 different people taking part, 16 of which were in the 50+ age group. The classes are enormous fun, energetic and you can’t help but smile and laugh your way through the whole session, which has left everyone feeling really good.
One of the people in attendance said
“It’s great; you are able to join in without feeling silly”.
Through this project we have noticed that new friendships that have been made. Some of the class are arranging to meet up away from The Youthy, which is great.
In the evaluations of the project, individuals have commented that they were made to feel very welcome, that they received constant encouragement and a positive attitude and they thanked our team for making it really enjoyable.