Stronger for Longer SWFCCP health programme helps Sheffield people rebuild lives
Our free-to-access health and fitness programme, delivered by Sheffield Wednesday FC Community Programme, is helping older adults and people recovering from illness or mobility issues rebuild their strength, confidence and independence.
Delivered by Sheffield Wednesday FC Community Programme (SWFCCP) at our Community Facility on Clay Wheels Lane, Stronger for Longer provides a welcoming and supportive environment where participants can work on their strength, fitness and mobility at their own pace.
Funded by Sport England, the programme is designed to support older adults and people facing health and mobility challenges, with sessions focused on rebuilding strength and muscle, improving fitness and helping participants feel more confident about being active.
And for participants Joe and Andrew, the difference the programme has made has been life-changing.
“I knew I needed to improve my fitness after being in intensive care.” - Joe
For lifelong Owls fan and season-ticket holder Joe, the journey began from a very different place.
This time last year, the 67-year-old had just been discharged from intensive care.
Today, he is continuing to rebuild his strength and confidence through Stronger for Longer, with the support of the SWFCCP team.
For Joe, the programme has provided an opportunity to focus on his recovery in a friendly and supportive environment.
He said: “I was on a ventilator for seven days during my time in intensive care. I knew something needed to change and I needed to work on my fitness.
“The team are amazing at telling us how to improve certain exercises and techniques which really make a difference. I am so grateful for Stronger for Longer and everyone who is involved in delivering it.”
“The improvement in my life is 100%.” - Andrew
69-year-old Andrew has undergone two knee replacements and, this time last year, was unable to walk.
But now, after attending Stronger for Longer for more than a year, Andrew can go out for walks of 10-12km.
Andrew cannot praise the programme enough.
He said: “The improvement in my life is 100% and I can’t thank them enough. The programme is first class.”
He also says the benefits aren't only physical.
The opportunity to meet other people and become part of a supportive group has been just as important to him.
He said: “It’s a fantastic way to meet others as well and it’s imperative that it is here to stay. I’m eternally grateful to the Community Programme for supplying this.”
“It’s about helping people regain confidence and build strength”
Sean Graves, Health Managerat SWFCCP, said: “Stronger for Longer is about much more than exercise and fitness. It’s about helping people regain confidence, build strength and feel able to do the things they want to do in everyday life.
“We see the difference that having a supportive environment, regular activity and a community around you can make.
“Joe and Andrew are fantastic examples of what can happen when people are given the opportunity, encouragement and support to take those steps forward.
“We’re incredibly proud of everyone who takes part, and we want Stronger for Longer to continue helping people across our community live healthier, more active lives.”
Find out more about Stronger for Longer
If you would like to find out more about upcoming Stronger for Longer sessions, contact Ben at the Sheffield Wednesday FC Community Programme team on ben.lamb@swfccp.co.uk.