We’re supporting vulnerable residents in Peterborough

Thanks to the Latvian Community Association, we’re providing activities that enhance physical and mental health.

Since the pandemic, there has been a strong need to rebuild cohesion, improve communication and reduce social isolation across all our communities – not least for our customers in our later living and supported schemes. Hartwell Court is a later living scheme in Peterborough, and for most of the residents, English is not their first language. In fact, over seven different languages are spoken at Hartwell Court.

Thanks to Hyde Foundation’s Evolve Fund and Ian Williams Ltd, through Match My Project, the Latvian Community Association was able to step in. Based in Peterborough, the Latvian Community Association provides support to those in need, to ‘create a more compassionate, equal world, where everyone can feel heard and supported’.

Every Friday, the Latvian Community Association gathers together 25 residents at Hartwell Court. In their own familiar environment, the residents are led into an hour long stretching and gentle movement practice, including chair yoga. Their yoga teacher, Aelita Roze, brings over 10 years’ experience working with elderly people and improving their physical health.

Having a skilled yoga instructor with experience of working with elderly individuals, ensures that sessions are accessible, enjoyable, and beneficial. In these sessions, it’s emphasised to the residents that they do as much (or as little) as they feel like - no competition, no judgement.

After the class, the association has started ‘social smoothie’ sessions - where they bring in freshly baked Latvian treats and fresh fruit and vegetables to make smoothies on the spot for the residents (with all equipment provided by Latvian CA). And it’s been a big success.

The sessions provide the residents with a chance to socialise and catch up – which is simply not possible during the yoga classes alone.
In fact, the sessions have become so popular, that other Hyde customers, not just Hartwell Court residents, are now joining in the classes.

Taseef Younas, our Projects and Partnerships Manager, said: “This is such an important time of their week for the residents, who enjoy interacting with each other, creating stronger bonds and exercising - creating more resilient bodies.

“Over 80% of participants reported feeling better after the sessions, with many experiencing increased flexibility, better joint movement, and more energy.”

Hartwell Court resident, Charlie, said: "A year ago, my health was in bad shape, and I struggled to keep up with everyday activities. Since joining the chair yoga and social sessions, I’ve noticed real improvements. I feel stronger, more flexible, and I absolutely love the social aspect. Meeting new people and sharing laughs has been just as valuable as the physical benefits."

Residents have now expressed interest in additional fitness activities, such as Zumba, as well as other health-oriented classes, including healthy eating and creative classes (mosaics, reading, and art).

Support from Ian Williams Ltd, through Match My Project, for the Latvian Community Association has included: office table and chairs for the charity office to support volunteers; and a coffee machine for the office, to provide quality coffee for everyone involved with the charity’s activities – staff, volunteers, beneficiaries and guests.