For many women who have experienced domestic abuse, taking part in physical activity is about much more than exercise. A loss of confidence, feelings of isolation and anxiety about entering public spaces can all become barriers to improving health and wellbeing.
Recognising this need, Lift the Weight has been developed in Redditch to provide a safe, supportive and welcoming environment where women can begin rebuilding confidence, improve their physical and mental wellbeing, and connect with others who may share similar experiences. The programme was created in response to a recognised gap in support, with organisers identifying that many women felt unable to access traditional gym environments despite wanting to improve their health.
The project is delivered from Valhalla Gym and combines low-impact exercise sessions with opportunities for peer support and social connection. Participants can access classes through a private entrance and exercise in a dedicated space separated from the main gym by privacy measures including curtains and frosted windows. These adaptations help create an environment where women can feel comfortable, supported and free from judgement.
Public Health Community Wellbeing Grant funding has played a crucial role in turning the idea into reality. The grant enabled the creation of the private exercise space and the practical changes needed to make the environment accessible and welcoming for women who may otherwise have felt unable to participate.
Organisers say the response from prospective participants has already highlighted the importance of these seemingly simple changes.
“Several women have specifically commented on and appreciated the privacy we have created through things such as the curtains and window coverings.”
Even before the first sessions have begun, the project has demonstrated a clear local need. Women enrolling onto the programme have spoken openly about how difficult experiences have affected their confidence and how intimidating a traditional gym environment can feel.
“Some have explained that their confidence has been really knocked or deflated and that, because of this, going into a normal gym environment can feel incredibly daunting.”
Importantly, Lift the Weight is not just about helping women become more active. It is about creating opportunities for connection, belonging and mutual support. Alongside improving physical health through movement, the programme aims to strengthen mental wellbeing by helping participants build friendships, reduce feelings of isolation and become part of a supportive community network. Chloe, a Director of Valhalla Community Fitness CIC, who began the project explained:
“We’re trying to build a little community and get their confidence back.”
The long-term ambition is to help women develop the confidence to access physical activity independently, whether that means attending the gym on their own, exercising with friends they have met through the programme or continuing to engage in other wellbeing activities within their communities.
The grant funding has therefore done more than support a series of exercise sessions. It has enabled the creation of a sustainable community offer, one that can demonstrate need, gather evidence of impact and establish a model designed to continue supporting local women into the future.
Early demand and positive feedback suggest there is significant potential for the programme to grow and become a lasting community asset, helping more women improve their health and wellbeing while building supportive social connections locally.
Lift the Weight demonstrates the impact that community-led solutions can have when local people are given the resources to turn ideas into action. Through creating a safe space, removing barriers and fostering meaningful connections, the project is helping women take positive steps towards healthier, more connected and more confident lives.
If your organisation has an idea that could improve the wellbeing of Worcestershire residents, find out more about the Community Wellbeing Grant Programme Community Wellbeing Grants | Worcestershire County Council . Your idea could be the next project helping communities thrive.