Blog

The Basement Project, with bases in Halifax and Todmorden, has become a vital lifeline for many people struggling with addiction across Calderdale. They aim to offer support and inspiration for all those suffering from the problems caused by substance misuse and indeed, all their staff have at some point been touched by addiction issues.

By Jilly Walstow

My name is Jilly aka Mamma Strider. I set up a women’s running group in Hebden Bridge just over 4 years ago, I had a year where every ultra marathon I entered resulted in a 'Did Not Finish' (DNF) and I was left feeling despondent. I needed to do something - what if I couldn’t run anymore? Maybe encouraging others would be enough…

by Ifeoma Isife

I have a son, now 7 years old. I am the main carer and I take him out to ride his bike alongside other activities. I always walk behind while he is on his bike and most times, he would say ‘C’mon mummy walk fast’ or ‘you can’t catch me’ sort of phrase to make me close the gap between us or walk faster. Cycling with my son is the main motivation, his current phrase now is ‘I’m faster than you’ whenever he cycles past me.

When we meet, can we move? That’s the question that we are asking every organisation in Calderdale this summer. We’re asking this because we believe that when we move, we’re stronger – and walking meetings are a great way to get started for many.

“It makes you feel good in yourself, it’s time to think, time to get away, time to just switch off for a little bit and chat about something that isn’t work, children or families.”  

Ella King, Active Champion

When we meet, can we move? Local resident and Active Champion Ella King spotted an opportunity to meet & move that fitted into her new daily routine.

In June, we visited Ryburn United FC, where Age UK Calderdale and Kirklees have set up their very first walking football session for the people they support, and the general public too.

We paid them a visit to ask them why the session was important to them, and to see the impact it was having on residents.