Move More Together was a one-to-one support programme developed by SASP, created to help inactive adults over 50 regain confidence, reconnect with physical activity and enjoy the benefits of movement and social connection. At the heart of the initiative, trained volunteers are matched with participants to support them gently back into being active. We saw participants achieve this in so many ways with activities taking place at home with exercise bands, in the garden, outside on a walk and in community facilities. Flexibility is key to finding an activity that is suitable for sometimes unpredictable health conditions.
Since its launch in 2020, Move More Together has helped facilitate matches between volunteers and participants. SASP endeavoured to find the right match for people which wasn’t always easy, but for it to be sustainable and long-term, the match had to be right. Through these trusted matches, the programme looked to combat the isolation and nurture new friendships, empowering people to take small but meaningful steps towards a healthier, happier and more connected life in their later years.
One participant told us:
"I cannot believe the ways that having a volunteer has improved my life. I found myself actually wanting to leave the house!"
"It was very scary at first but I had a very empathetic and sympathetic volunteer who was wonderful and encouraged me every step of the way. We started slowly with short walks. I wasn't terribly mobile and she would always check I was ok and if I wanted to go back. We gradually increased the length of walk and chat, until now I am joining the health walks."
"It's made me really appreciate life again. I am nowhere near so scared of meeting people; I get more exercise…I joined a line dancing group; I attend and lead on a movement class."
“I am most proud of what I have achieved with my mobility and confidence. Going out on my own was a big step it took a while although enjoying walks with my volunteer before I felt I could go out on my own. My volunteer was really pleased and gave me lots of praise, she appreciated what I was achieving.”
“I feel I can really appreciate and enjoy life again, I can enjoy living. The scheme is a life changer which changed my life in a very positive way and I think it is great.”
A volunteer also shared their story:
“Having retired, I had more time and was looking for an opportunity to get involved, to have a sense of purpose and feel worthwhile whilst giving something back to the local community. I had always done various voluntary work but had come across SASP through my work and had been very impressed with the work they were doing."
"For me, I have met a lovely lady and made a new friend. Seeing the changes in my matched participant has really fulfilled my need to give something back to the community."
"The walking was only a part of this journey, it was the conversations and opportunities that opened up as a result of our sessions and time together."
"Seeing the change in her, she has found her identity again. She has had to be ready and made that effort to make changes but it has been so rewarding."
Through personalised support and encouragement, Move More Together demonstrated how simple, consistent companionship and social connection can make a real difference by helping older adults rediscover the joy of movement and supporting volunteers to contribute meaningfully in their communities. The programme highlights SASP’s wider commitment to breaking down barriers to physical activity and fostering wellbeing for people of all ages.