In my role I look at improving the health and wellbeing of our residents with a particular focus on the most deprived communities in Doncaster. I look to work alongside community organisations to help residents be more active, finding ways to overcome any barriers to physical activity and get people moving.

What do you do to keep active?

Outside of work I have two young children who keep me busy! I also walk 30 minutes to work each day which I really enjoy and it is not only good for me physically but also mentally. I love getting out on my bike when time allows and I would love to find some local exercise classes to attend.

What advice would you give to someone who wanted to start moving more?

Look at what is going on in your area, start off small and build it up. Exercise is great both mentally and physically and the impact it can have on your overall wellbeing is huge.

My role is to improve the health and wellbeing of residents both in the community and on a one to one basis. A part of my role is listening to residents and ensuring they have access to green spaces and create opportunities for residents to be active in the communities, which can be funded by Active Communities Grants. I also work alongside the Community Connectors in central to support them in their roles and we work together so we can encourage the communities to be more active.

What do you do to keep active?

Outside of work I like to swim, it helps me relax and unwind after a day at work or university. I have also taken up walking around a local country park, which has been nice to clear my mind but also an opportunity to catch up with a friend.

What advice would you give to someone who wanted to start moving more?

I think you need to take small realistic steps, which can be included in your daily lives and then slowly build up activity levels.

I work with communities in Doncaster East to improve health and wellbeing, and address any barriers to being physically active. It is important to listen to the voice of residents and use that to shape what services and support is needed to promote active travel, and make best use of our green spaces. For me, physical activity comes in all forms and there is no one size fits all so I am keen to reduce inactivity in different ways.

What do you do to keep active?

I go to gym and have recently started CrossFit, I try to squeeze workouts in where I can. When it gets to the weekend I slow it down and enjoy being out in nature walking. I regularly practice yoga and find the relaxation and stretch important for recovery.
I try to give everything a try (at least once) so occasionally climb, swim, paddleboard and kayak. If there is an opportunity to move and have fun I will give it a go!

What advice would you give to someone who wanted to start moving more?

Utilise any support that is available. Whether it is friends, family, local groups or organisations – there is a wealth of support and knowledge out there, so don't feel like you have to do it alone. Give everything a try, the unconventional, weird and wonderful. If it is moving and you enjoy it then you're winning.

In my role I listen to the local community to gain valuable insight into the barriers facing people to be more active. I then use this information to work with partners, community groups etc. to find ways in which to reduce or overcome these barriers. I also work alongside the Community Connector in Stainforth to support her role and we work together to support our community to be more active.

What do you do to keep active?

I have a very busy life with three boys to keep entertained but we go on regular walks around the community. Since Covid we have found new walks in the area we live, we like exploring and keep active that way. I am going to start fitness classes as a way of getting a bit of me time as well as being more active!

What advice would you give to someone who wanted to start moving more?

Just to do little and often at first, then to slowly push yourself to go a little further, and work your way up to more activity from there, one step at a time. When you have achieved the next step the feeling of accomplishment is amazing!

I support community groups and organisations to create opportunities for residents to be active through advice, promotion and access to funding such as the Active Communities Grants. I also share community insight from residents in the south of Doncaster to ensure that community voices are heard on aspects such as the regeneration of green spaces, accessibility or support with events.

What do you do to keep active?

I mostly keep active with the help of my 11 year old daughter and puppy! But I do enjoy going for walks, enjoying natural scenery.

What advice would you give to someone who wanted to start moving more?

Start small and make it manageable so it can be done over an extended period of time. Whether it's walking to the shop to buy the daily news or taking the bins out.