Age UK Wandsworth - Active Chats/Active Friends

Why Active Friends?

Active Friends is an expanded version of our previous ‘Active Chats’ service that aims to help older people feel more confident, improve their physical and mental health, and build friendships through physical activity.

A recent survey undertaken by Age UK found that as a result of the series of lockdowns in the UK, 1/3 of older people surveyed said they have less energy, 1/5 feel less steady on their feet, ¼ said they cannot walk as far as they previously could, and ¼ are in more physical pain than pre-pandemic. We hope that through participation with Active Friends, older people will feel more motivated and able to keep themselves active, both at home and in the community.

What is Active Friends?

The Active Friends service is varied and flexible depending on an older person’s needs.

An older person who may struggle to engage in physical activity on their own can be paired with a trained volunteer, who would accompany them out walking in the local area or visit them at home to work through some gentle seated exercises.

Is this service free?

Yes! There is no charge for any of our Active Friends sessions, but should you wish to donate to Age UK Wandsworth you can do so