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Background

People living with severe mental illness (SMI) often face significant challenges when it comes to physical health and wellbeing. Many experience barriers to taking part in regular physical activity, yet research shows that moving more can have a powerful impact — not only improving physical health, but also boosting mood, increasing confidence and reducing some mental illness symptoms.

Recognising this, the Wellbeing, Belonging and Moving for Mental Health project aims to promote mental wellbeing through activities that foster connection, inclusion, and movement. By encouraging people with SMI to take part in physical activity in a way that feels safe and welcoming, the project hopes to build stronger, healthier communities where everyone can thrive.

How Energize Got Involved

Energize is proud to support this important work as part of a partnership. The project, which began in July 2025, has been developed collaboratively by Shropshire Council, Telford & Wrekin Council, Telford Mind, and the Midlands Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust, with support from Energize and initial funding from Sport England.

Energize’s role has included supporting the design and development of inclusive, accessible sessions, alongside helping partners embed physical activity into local mental health pathways. The partnership has also prioritised building understanding through mental health awareness training - ensuring that those delivering activities feel confident and equipped to provide supportive environments for participants.

What's available

People living with serious mental illness are able to access these activities:

• Tuesday 10:30am-12:00pm - Football at AFC Telford United, SEAH Station.  This may end on 1st December. 

• Wednesday 2:45pm-3:45pm - Gentle exercise at The Redwoods Centre, Wenlock Building Oasis Room, Shrewsbury. This may end on 25th November.

• Thursday 2:30-4pm - Tennis at Oakengates Leisure Centre, Telford. This may end on 26th November.

The activities aim to improve physical health, enhance mental wellbeing and increase a sense of belonging through inclusive and safe movement in a supportive environment. They are designed for people living in the community and within clinical settings with a diagnosis of a severe mental illness. 

Attendance is co-ordinated by the Mental Health team at the Midlands Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust. If you or someone you know or support could benefit from attending the activities, please email activitiessmiph@mpft.nhs.uk or speak to your key worker. An alternative contact is Gemma (Health and Wellbeing Instructor) at The Redwoods Centre, Shrewsbury.

Free group walks in beautiful parkland

Another activity which is available for people's mental health and wellbeing is free group walks at Attingham Park near Shrewsbury.  Available for anyone with a mental illness that would like to take a walk, see the deer and help improve their wellbeing. 

The walks take place on Tuesdays, 2pm - 3pm.  Click here to see leaflet and who to contact.

Next steps

The project evolves based on feedback from participants, with lived experience at the heart of its development. By bringing people together through movement, connection and care, the project hopes to show that with the right support, movement can be within reach for all of us to improve our wellbeing.

If you’d like to know more or have any questions, please email Michelle.