Strength & balance classes

Wellmoor have been granted funding from the North Dartmoor PCN to run 12 week programmes of in person strength & balance classes in local communities. The classes will be led by qualified Postural Stability Instructors, and facilitated by a member of the Wellmoor team. Alex Austin, Practice Manager and Moretonhampstead Health Centre, says that “a physical (in person) balance group would be a lifeline to our patients”.

The programme is aimed primarily at those who are over 65, who are at risk or fearful of falling, and will be limited to small group sizes of around 10 people to allow individual attention for each participant. The sessions will include exercises to improve balance and confidence, and demonstrate ways to safely get up again after a fall, with the aim of improving independence and reducing the amount of falls-related hospital admissions. The sessions will run for 1.5 hours, are free of charge and include refreshments.

Those taking part will be given a thorough assessment of their needs before the programme starts, and the exercises will aim to improve balance and confidence, reducing the risk of falls. The programme is fully endorsed by GPs and physiotherapists at Moretonhampstead Health Centre and Okehampton Medical Centre, and referrals will be made both via GPs and self-referrals from participants or their families.

We run consecutive blocks of classes so to find out about when the next one starts, please call 01647 478378 or email katie@wellmoor.org.uk to find out more.