A new and innovative drop-in walking stick repair service is helping local residents stay safe, independent and active, thanks to a partnership between KA Leisure’s Active Lifestyles team and Brooksby Medical Practice.
The initiative was developed after a physiotherapy assistant practitioner from Brooksby Medical Practice visited the Vikingar! Café and noticed several customers using walking aids that required maintenance, particularly worn ferrules. Recognising an opportunity to provide practical, preventative support, the team worked together to introduce Walking Aid MOT drop-in sessions at Vikingar!, initially aligned with the Invigor8 falls prevention classes.
These sessions offer simple but vital checks, including the replacement of ferrules, provision of NHS walking aids where appropriate, and advice on accessing further support. By ensuring walking aids are safe and fit for purpose, the service plays an important role in preventing slips and falls and supporting confidence in everyday mobility.
The first drop-in session took place on Monday 26th January from 2.15–3.15pm in the Vikingar! Café, with a strong response from participants.
The service complements KA Leisure’s wider falls prevention offer, including the Invigor8 and Invigor8 PLUS classes delivered as part of the Physical Activity on Referral programme.
Invigor8 is a specialist exercise programme designed to reduce the risk of falls by improving strength, balance and mobility, while also helping participants develop the confidence and strategies needed to manage safely. The class is accessible to a wide range of abilities, with both seated and standing options available.
For those ready to progress, Invigor8 PLUS provides more functionally challenging exercises to support continued improvements in strength and balance.
Together, these services provide a holistic approach to falls prevention – combining practical support, targeted exercise and ongoing community-based wellbeing opportunities.
The sessions are delivered within the Vikingar! Café, which now offers a welcoming and social environment where participants can connect, relax and feel part of a supportive community. This informal setting has proven to be an important part of the overall experience, helping to reduce isolation and encourage ongoing engagement.
One participant said "The new café makes coming to the Invigor8 class more enjoyable and sociable. Also, the instructors at class are extremely helpful and look after us.”
Following the success of the initial session, further drop-in dates will be scheduled throughout the year, with the aim of reaching a wider audience across the community – not only those currently participating in referral programmes.
Lisa Evans, Assistant Health and Wellbeing Manager said “It’s fantastic to see the impact this type of support is having on people’s everyday lives. The combination of practical interventions like the walking aid checks alongside our Invigor8 programme is helping people feel more confident, stay active and maintain their independence. We see first-hand the difference it makes, not just physically but socially as well, and it’s great to be able to offer something that genuinely supports people’s overall wellbeing.”
Residents interested in attending future sessions, joining the programme, or finding out more about staying active and supported are encouraged to get in touch. For more information or to access support with active living, the Active Lifestyles team would love to hear from you: info@activelifestyles.com
