Grant funding for Barnsley dementia exercise group

Grant funding for Barnsley dementia exercise group

People living with dementia and their families, as well as those with physical challenges in Barnsley are benefiting from a new exercise group created thanks to grant funding from South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation (SYCF).

Emmanuel Methodist Church, on Huddersfield Road, was awarded £3,600 by SYCF to fund a one-year pilot for The Gentle Exercise Group.

Launched last year, in partnership with Barnsley Independent Alzheimer’s and Dementia Support (BIADS), the weekly class now runs alongside the church’s regular Tuesday coffee mornings with refreshments and a chance to make friendships.

The Gentle Exercise Group, which is led by a qualified fitness trainer, attracts up to 25 people per session and was recently awarded a Certificate of Recognition by SYCF for its impact in the community.

Dr Jan Eldred, a member of the Church who helped set up the group, said: “We are so grateful to South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation for providing the funding to get this vital project going.”

“We know from World Health Organisation research that social isolation severely damages health and can lead to early cognitive decline.”

“The group offers more than just physical activities, but a place where participants help each other, laugh and enjoy coffee, cake and conversation.”

“Since signing up for the exercise class, some members have also joined in wider church opportunities, such as coach outings, crafts and Christmas activities.”

One participant said: "We come here every week. It helps me as a carer and my wife, who is a dementia sufferer. She loves the music! Others help her and that helps me. We exercise and chat – it keeps us going. Everyone is so friendly.”

Another person said, “This group is like having a vitamin injection! It's gentle exercise but we get out of breath making our arms and legs go in the right way, then, we all start laughing!”

South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation is the region’s largest grant-giving charity. Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, the Foundation has awarded more than £40 million to grassroots groups across South Yorkshire over the past four decades.

Jess O’Neill, grants and partnerships manager at SYCF, said: “What Emmanuel Methodist Church has created with this funding is just fantastic. The Gentle Exercise Group is such an important resource for the local community, supporting those with neurological and physical difficulties, and their families, by offering opportunities to improve physical and mental wellbeing and the chance to build social connections – mitigating the impact of loneliness.

“It just shows what can be achieved with a small grant, along with dedicated volunteers and activities which respond to community need to fill a gap in people’s lives and provision.”