For World Diabetes Day, the Royal Borough of Greenwich is celebrating the success of Champions for Change, a community led health and fitness programme helping residents reduce their risk of Type 2 Diabetes through accessible, inclusive exercise.
Type 2 Diabetes is one of the fastest growing health conditions in the UK, affecting around 1 in 10 adults. In Greenwich, thousands of residents are living with or at risk of developing it. Funded by the council’s Greenwich Get Active initiative, a 24-week non-contact boxing programme is supporting adults at risk of Type 2 Diabetes to get active, improve their fitness and build lasting healthy habits.
The results have been powerful. Over 30 sessions with 40 residents taking part, including 29 women and 24 people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds, many of whom were previously inactive. After just 12 weeks, several participants were able to reduce their insulin prescriptions, thanks to improved fitness and sustained lifestyle changes.
Councillor Sandra Bauer, Cabinet Member for Equality, Culture and Communities, said: “We’re committed to making sure everyone can take part in activities that make them feel stronger, healthier and happier. The Champions for Change programme is a great example of how community-led sport can inspire positive change, tackle health inequalities and support residents at risk of Diabetes to live healthier lives.”
Councillor Mariam Lolavar, Cabinet Member for Health, Adult Social Care and Borough of Sanctuary, said: “It's inspiring to see how local initiatives like this are helping residents take proactive steps to improve their health, supporting people to be more active and build healthier habits that will prevent Type 2 Diabetes. We’re breaking down barriers to fitness and ensuring everyone in Greenwich can live a healthier lifestyle.”
One participant said: “Since I’ve joined, my fitness has improved, and I've also developed more technique. I've enjoyed the boxing, it’s a great way of keeping fit in your daily life. You can take what you’ve learnt from the sessions and do it at home to keep fit, which I think is a great idea. I wish more people took up the opportunity to get involved.”
Through Champions for Change and other local health programmes, the council is working to create fairer access to health and wellbeing opportunities, ensuring every resident has a chance to live a healthier, more active life.
To find out more or self-refer to Champions for Change, contact info@c4cwb.org.uk. Find and book sessions online through Eventbrite.