Grass Roots Family CIC: Creating Accessible Fitness and Community Connections at St Peter’s Community Centre

St Peter’s Community Centre in Sowerby has been buzzing with activity, thanks to subsidised community classes organised by Grass Roots CIC. Yoga, belly dancing, and gentle movement tasters have been offered to local residents for free over six weeks, followed by half-price sessions for an additional six weeks. Orienteering tasters, in collaboration with East Pennine Orienteering Club, have also added an exciting element to the mix.

This initiative is all about bringing accessible, low-cost fitness opportunities to the community while fostering a sense of belonging and social connection.

Why Was This Initiative Launched?

Sowerby village is an area of deprivation, with limited local facilities for residents. St Peter’s Community Centre has long been a hub for various activities, offering a welcoming space for drop-in support, warm meals, and regular community-led events like a menopause café and family-friendly sessions. However, full-price class fees often acted as a barrier for some residents. That’s where Kate Auker, the Centre's manager, stepped in. Working alongside class leaders and Grass Roots CIC, Kate launched this initiative to make these popular classes more accessible to local residents.

Her vision wasn’t just about offering affordable fitness opportunities - it was about encouraging more people to come to the community centre, get involved, and feel more connected.

Kate’s strong relationships within the community and her understanding of the challenges people face in accessing help were central to this project. By removing financial barriers, she hoped to empower more individuals to engage with the Centre, increase their confidence, and feel part of a supportive local network.

How the Project Came Together

Kate worked closely with Active Calderdale's Community Project Manager, Emma, to develop a feasible investment proposal. After months of planning and discussions with volunteers, they co-designed a project that included a launch event in Spring 2024. The event offered free taster sessions for yoga, belly dancing, and orienteering, along with healthy food options to encourage participation. The orienteering took place in the community centre’s outdoor space, adding a fun and engaging element for attendees.

The response was overwhelmingly positive, with many residents signing up for weekly yoga and belly dancing classes after trying the sessions. Orienteering tasters have continued, with another session planned for the end of September.

However, the project has not been without its challenges. Encouraging people to commit to the classes and overcoming gaps in provision when instructors were unavailable have been hurdles. Still, it’s early days, and with each passing week, Kate and her team continue to build trust and communication with the community, ensuring the initiative’s steady growth.

Positive Impact on the Community

The results so far have been incredibly encouraging, both in terms of physical activity and community engagement. Here are just a few of the heartwarming stories from participants:

One local resident (F, 36) shared her experience:

“I honestly didn't think that I could do belly dancing. I think I was just embarrassed by my size and lack of fitness, but it's been brilliant and really boosted my confidence. I saw it advertised ages ago but I couldn't afford it, so it’s been great to take part without worrying about money.”

She attended the class with her daughter, which highlights another benefit of the initiative—being active together as a family.

Another participant, M, who is in her mid-70s, shared how the sessions have helped her:

“Really helpful for easing back into fitness. I was worried about my mobility, but it has really helped. I've started walking the dog further too, which he really appreciates!”

Though 'M' doesn’t attend every session, her improved mobility and newfound social connections have clearly made a big difference in her happiness and well-being.

One of the children at the launch event also had a memorable experience:

“I didn’t think I’d be good at orienteering but tried it anyway and really loved it. My Mum should do this as she’s always getting lost—even with the satnav!”

This light-hearted comment captures the fun and unexpected rewards the initiative has brought to people of all ages.

What’s Next?

The next Orienteering taster session is scheduled for the end of September, followed by another community event planned for October/November. The centre is also looking to introduce a 'Gentle Exercise For All' class in the near future.

With new partnerships forming and more community members getting involved, St Peter’s Community Centre is set to continue growing as a vital space for accessible physical activity, social connection, and personal empowerment.