World Mental Health Day (10 October) serves as a poignant reminder that mental wellbeing is integral to our overall health. This year, the theme “Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies” emphasises the critical need for accessible mental health support during crises. While global events highlight this urgency, it’s essential to recognize that fostering mental health resilience begins within our communities.
At ActiveWestminster, we are committed to ensuring that every resident has the opportunity to engage in activities that promote both physical and mental health. Through our Move for Life! Strategy 2024–2028, we aim to create a fairer, healthier, and happier Westminster by providing inclusive and accessible movement opportunities for all.
Inclusive activities for mental wellbeing
Westminster offers a diverse range of free and low-cost activities to support both mental and physical wellbeing:
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Gentle Movement: Engage in activities like yoga, somatic therapy walking, and cycling. Whether it’s high-impact or slower-paced, movement makes a difference
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Be Active in Your Neighbourhood: Participate in guided walks and outdoor community activities to connect with nature and others.
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Community leisure offers: Access discounted services through the ActiveWestminster Card, making movement accessible for every community member.
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Inclusive programs for all residents: Our goal is to provide safe and welcoming environemnts for every resident from every walk of like to move and get active in a way that works best for them. That’s why we run initiatives like Edutain+ (in partnership with Everyone Active and SportWest) – a school holiday camp that is suitable for children with disabilities to engage, and connect with their peers. We’ve recently launched a brand-new swimming club for adults with disabilities, which is delivered by WeSwim, an organisation dedicated to supporting inclusive swimming ActiveWestminster’s Commitment to Mental Health
ActiveWestminster’s Commitment to Mental Health
Our approach is guided by three strategic pillars:
- Active Lives: Encouraging residents to engage in regular physical activity through tailored programs that focus on different needs and abilities.
- Active Neighbourhoods: Creating vibrant local environments with parks, open spaces, safe streets, and community-led initiatives that inspire movement and connection.
- Active City: Capitalising on Westminster’s top-class facilities and meaningful partnerships to make physical activity a central part of its identity.
These pillars ensure that mental wellbeing is at the heart of how Westminster moves.
Take a Step for Your Wellbeing
This World Mental Health Day, we encourage you to take a simple step: move for your mind. Whether it’s a walk with a friend, trying a new class, or just taking five minutes to stretch, every bit counts.
We’re committed to a fairer, healthier, happier Westminster, where everyone has the chance to move, connect, and thrive.
Move for Your Mind This World Mental Health Day
