Voluntary organisations, community groups and those delivering physical activities are invited to apply for funding to run activity programmes to help prevent falls in older people.
East Suffolk Council’s new Strength and Balance project promotes ‘falls prevention exercise’ to encourage people aged 65 and over to stay active, reduce their likelihood of falls and provide opportunities to meet others in the community.
Through the project, a series of 12-week ‘Otago’ strength and balance programmes will be funded across the south of East Suffolk.
Programmes are already being funded in Leiston, Felixstowe, Saxmundham, and Woodbridge, and the scheme would bolster the offer in these areas whilst also expanding to other areas.
Cllr Jan Candy, East Suffolk’s cabinet member for Community Health, said: "Falling can cause serious injury, affect mobility, increase social isolation and reduce self-confidence. Strength and Balance exercise is a scientifically proven way for older adults to reduce their risk of falling whilst remaining active, and as a Council we are keen to ensure these programmes are available which will not only have a positive effect upon our residents’ health, but also reduce the demand on local health services."
Groups and organisations can apply for a share of £40,000 in funding, which will cover 12 months of group-based Otago exercise delivery. Organisations of all sizes are eligible to apply, provided they can meet the requirements detailed in the standard operating procedure.
Full details about how to apply.
The Otago Exercise Programme was developed in New Zealand and comprises strength and balance exercises which can be performed at home or in a community setting, either individually or in a group. The exercises are shown to reduce the risk of falls in older people.