Valley Leisure is delighted to announce that it has been awarded £19,976 from The National Lottery Community Fund’s Awards for All programme to continue delivering its successful Yoga for Wellbeing project in Andover.
The funding will enable Valley Leisure, through its I Can Move More programme, to deliver four free 12-week Yoga for Wellbeing programmes over the next two years, supporting around 48 adults experiencing poor mental health.
The project is specifically designed for adults living with challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, grief, and low mood, as well as those experiencing social isolation or at risk of mental health crisis. Through a combination of therapeutic yoga, guided relaxation and supportive group activities, participants will gain practical tools to help manage their wellbeing, build confidence, and develop positive routines.
Sessions will take place in Andover and will be free to attend, helping to remove financial barriers to accessing wellbeing support during a time when many people continue to face cost of living pressures.
The National Lottery funding will cover specialist therapeutic delivery, project coordination, venue hire, equipment, participant resources and programme running costs, ensuring that local people can access a welcoming and inclusive environment where they can improve both their physical and mental wellbeing.
Liz Murray, Head of Active Ageing at Valley Leisure, said:
“We are thrilled to have received this funding from The National Lottery Community Fund. Mental health challenges affect so many people in our community, and we know that accessing the right support at the right time can make a significant difference. This investment will allow us to continue providing a safe, supportive and inclusive space where people can improve their wellbeing, build confidence, connect with others and develop practical skills to manage their mental health.”
The Yoga for Wellbeing programme has already demonstrated the positive impact that community-based physical activity and social connection can have on mental wellbeing. Participants have reported improvements in confidence, resilience, and emotional wellbeing, with some progressing into volunteering opportunities and wider community involvement.
Valley Leisure would like to thank National Lottery players for making this funding possible and helping local organisations deliver projects that strengthen communities and improve lives.