Local delivery is supported by dedicated Healthwise facilitators across each centre, with Amanda Raine leading at East End Pool and other team members supporting Gosforth, West Denton, and Newcastle Trampoline Park.
Healthwise is a physical activity referral programme designed to support individuals with long-term medical conditions or those at risk of chronic illnesses who are currently inactive. Its ethos centres on helping people to improve their physical and mental wellbeing through exercise and has helped more than 960 people in Newcastle to date.
The programme is for residents aged 18 and over who are living with conditions such as obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, asthma, musculoskeletal issues, anxiety, depression, cancer, heart disease, respiratory disease and other chronic health conditions, or those who have specialist requirements that prevent them from entering mainstream exercise.
Anne Marie Donaghey, 46-years from Byker, is a recovering alcoholic and is more than 10-months sober. She signed up to the Healthwise programme at East End Pool on day nine of her recovery.
Anne explained: “The excessive drinking had taken its toll on my body – I’d put on a lot of weight, my joints ached and I had fatty tissue and scarring on my liver. I decided to replace my ‘gin’ fix with the ‘gym’ fix.
“Since signing up to the Healthwise programme back in 2024, I’ve lost 2½ stone and I look and feel so much better – I can’t believe the transformation when I compare before and after pictures. I attend the gym three times each week, taking part in the circuit training, Pilates and aqua aerobics sessions. A structured exercise programme gave me something new to focus on, direction and routine. It created a distraction, took my mind off my former habit and provided a positive outlet to channel my energies. Exercise has and continues to play a vital role in my recovery”
Clare Scarlett, 69-years from Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, who is classed as severely sight impaired, joined the scheme almost two-years ago. She had previously been incredibly active, but as her sight degenerated over the last 10-years, her exercise regime diminished.
Clare said: “I’d recently made a few short-lived attempts at getting back into a gym, but my failing sight had eroded my life choices, and I found the loss of independence increasingly challenging. I knew I needed more support than a tour and induction session to navigate the spatial layout of East End Pool. I was given one-to-one support about how to use the treadmill, cross trainer and handcycle safely and a tailored exercise programme.
“The progress I’ve made has been amazing. Gyms can be intimidating places at the best of times. The team immediately got the measure of my capabilities and gave me the self-belief, reassurance and encouragement to reintroduce exercise into my daily routine, making me more confident and physically stronger. The gym has a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, and it is used by people from all walks of life, regardless of age, ethnicity or disability. I’ve become more independent and have an acceptance that despite my sight limitations, things are improving. The ongoing support makes me feel good about the world again.”
Gerry from Heaton, joined the Healthwise programme in July 2024, after attending a three-month heart rehabilitation course. He swims regularly and takes part in the aqua aerobics, circuits and spin classes.
Gerry added: “Prior to developing a severe heart condition, I’d been very active, exercised regularly and maintained a healthy lifestyle. But the diagnosis shattered my confidence. I signed up to the Healthwise programme and eight months on, I’ve regained my confidence and feel ready to exercise independently and embark on my own programme.
Training under the watchful eye of exercise referral specialists was incredibly reassuring, and I’ve witnessed first-hand how Amanda and the team are adept at tailoring the programme to individuals with a range of health conditions. They have an in-depth understanding of various health issues and provide encouragement to train at a pace you’re comfortable with and strive to be the best version of yourself. It’s a marvellous programme, making a real difference to people’s health and wellbeing.”
Amanda Raine, Healthwise Facilitator for GLL Newcastle, said: “Our Healthwise referral schemes are dedicated to improving the lives of people with a range of health conditions and hearing such heart-warming stories from people who have benefited from the programme demonstrates the positive impact that physical activity and exercise can have.”
Anyone who has been diagnosed with a long-term medical condition or is at risk of chronic illness, can approach a healthcare professional, such as a GP, physiotherapist, or specialist nurse to request a referral.
People who sign up to the programme will have an initial consultation where they will undergo assessments to establish their existing health. They will then embark on a 12-week prescribed exercise programme designed by qualified Exercise Referral Specialists which is tailored to their medical conditions and needs. Progress is monitored throughout the programme, with encouragement and support to achieve personal goals.
There is a wide range of low impact classes and exercise options to suit all abilities.
The cost of the 12-week programme is £22 per month (for unlimited access to group sessions / leisure centre facilities) or £4.00 per (gym / exercise) session on a pay-as-you-go basis. Following the initial 12 weeks, participants can continue to benefit from the Healthwise Programme reduced membership for a further 21 months.
Individuals interested in the scheme can visit their local Better leisure centre to speak with a member of the Healthwise team or contact one of their health professionals.
For further details, please visit www.better.org.uk/what-we-offer/activities/healthwise or healthwise.newcastle@gll.org