This project is in response to ILP data that showed people living in the St Marks area of Cheltenham are at risk of dying up to ten years earlier than those in wealthier areas. This was identified as a priority within the Cheltenham ILP as identified in Core 20 modelling (most deprived 20% of population).

Clare Davies (Cheltenham Borough Council), Isbourne Centre, Third Age Fitness, Wiggly Charity, Cheltenham ILP, Goals Beyond Grass, Monkscroft Action Group.
The source for this data was Health inequalities identified in the Marmot report and a Power BI dashboard from NHS Gloucestershire ICB Business Intelligence.
Cheltenham Borough Homes have significant stock of property within the St Marks area. The target was people on low incomes. The age profile ranged from 12 – 87.
Weekly 2 hour sessions held at St Marks church with Patrick from Third Age Fitness delivering strength and balance classes, with seated exercise opportunities. Wiggly deliver a course based on health eating. The Isbourne centre do a set of sessions to develop self-help strategies for mental health and wellbeing. Adult Education run courses on managing anxiety. Gloucestershire Libraries provide books.
960 engagements carried out in the first year including 140 vulnerable adults. 20 regional partnerships and 40 new health activities offered to participants. 100% of participants confirmed a positive increase in their wellbeing. Quotes as follows:

“I learned about the stages of the sleep cycle, I don’t look at my iPad as much and I don’t watch as much television. My sleep has improved to the extent that I’m now off sleeping pills and anti-depressant medication.”

“When I come to Enrich, I feel ‘Wow, it’s Tuesday. Great day ahead! I wonder what’s on. Looking forward to new projects. Everything is different. I love it all. It’s fantastic!'”

“Six months ago, I couldn’t leave my flat, even to put the bins out. Now I have the confidence to go out every day.”

Funding is now secured for 2025/26. A similar model is now being rolled out for EnerG (children and families in St Pauls) and Embrace (for older adults to be delivered from town centre location in Cheltenham). EnerG to focus on healthy eating (from Easter 2025 onwards) and exercise. Embrace will have seated exercise offer again.