Publish date: 23 October 2024
Residents learnt about Stay Steady and Active, the new falls prevention campaign delivered by the Hounslow Borough Based Partnership, Lampton Leisure and community groups. They also got the opportunity to enjoy a range of taster sessions on the day including dance, Otago strength and balance, ballet, and swimming, with each class at full capacity.
More than 50 residents also brought their old slippers and swapped them for a new pair at the ‘Slipper Exchange’. As proper slippers can play a significant role in preventing falls, while old, worn-out ones can lead to serious injuries, resulting in hospitalisation and a loss of independence and confidence. The new slippers are designed with features including secure fastenings and sturdy soles.
There were also opportunities for residents to get a blood pressure check, talk to health and care professionals, and community services.
Stay Steady and Active aims to increase activity levels, test balance abilities, and reduce the risks of falls for residents aged 60 plus.
The campaign launched with a new tailored activity programme designed specifically for this age group which includes a range of FREE and pay-as-you-go classes; these will run from November 2024 – May 2025.
The campaign is underpinned by the new Steady and Active website which lists a range of falls prevention community, council and clinical services, plus the tailored activity programme. Residents can also take the new online Staying Steady Test designed by the West London NHS Falls Prevention and Bone Health Service to help them navigate to the best service to support to their needs.
Felice Fisher, Clinical Services Manager for Hounslow Specialist Integrated Services, West London NHS Trust, said:
“The West London NHS Trust Falls Prevention and Bone Health Service are excited to be working with community providers and Hounslow Council for the launch of the Staying Steady and Active Campaign.
“We are excited to see the wide range of community opportunities to support residents of Hounslow to stay active and offer information about how our service can work alongside community groups for reduce the risk of falls."
Groups who attended on the day, included:
• West London NHS Trust Falls Prevention and Bone Health Service
• Hounslow over 60’s free activities programme
• Hounslow Council's Home Safety Team
• Hounslow Council Health Outreach Team
• Age UK
• Move Into Wellbeing
• Linkline
• Hiyos – Primary Care
• Let’s Go Outside and Learn
• Sunshine Hounslow
• Hounslow Respiratory Support Group
• Social Prescribers
• Hounslow Council Adult Social Care
The Hounslow Borough Based Partnership brings together health, social care, and wider Local Authority services to remove barriers to healthcare for our communities, it includes:
- Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
- Hounslow Borough Team – NW London Integrated Care Board
- Primary Care Networks
