2022 winners of the BBC Essex ‘Make a Difference’ award, 3Food4U are currently running their 3Social&WarmPlace4U initiative across Chigwell, Loughton, Ongar, and Waltham Abbey, through volunteer efforts, thanks to Find Your Active funding.
The social and warm spaces are to be opened four times a month to locals in the area to provide a variety of activities for those living in social isolation. The group also take pride in being a dementia friendly organisation and being inclusive for all individuals. Due to the cost-of-living crisis and their long-term health conditions, groups like 3Social&WarmPlace4U are a vital part of the community, offering residents a lifeline.
Launched at their popular venue in Loughton, attendees take part in a whole host of activities from singing and dancing to yoga. With over 15 residents attending since their new session began in January, providing a great place and comfortable location to bring the community together and get them moving whilst enjoying a chat over some refreshments.
Session leader Pesh Kapasiawala commented: “It was wonderful to see the residents participating in the gentle chair yoga, with plenty of smiles and laughter. Everyone worked at their own ability, as Sally the yoga teacher took time to explain each pose. I believe that it is an invaluable session for people to continue to be active, working at their own pace, but also providing a great opportunity to socialise and come together as a community.”
One of those that attended the first session explained that “I enjoyed the chair yoga, and it made me happy.”
When talking about the Find Your Active campaign, and the vital support the funding has provided the group, Pesh said “We are delighted to have received support and funding from Find Your Active. It is allowing us to support the community with vital physical activities like chair yoga which are so important to people’s health and wellbeing.”
3Food4U are always looking for volunteers to help with their sessions and to support their organisation. Click here to view their online application if you are interested in volunteering.
