Burngreave New Deal for Communities

Gym and sports centres don't appeal to everyone.

BTCV Green Gym offers people an alternative – the opportunity to improve their fitness by involvement in practical conservation activities such as planting hedges, creating and maintaining community gardens, or improving footpaths.

How does it work?

• BTCV Green Gyms offer regular sessions of conservation activities in accordance with health and safety guidelines. People can join for an hour or more on a weekly or twice-weekly basis.

• Experienced leaders provide training in practical skills and encourage people to work according to their own capabilities.

• Green Gyms are open to people of all ages and from all walks of life.

• Health professionals, including GPs, nurses and health visitors, play a role in recommending the Green Gym to their patients.

• Where appropriate, BTCV facilitates Green Gym community groups. BTCV Officers provide training and support so that local people develop their skills and confidence in order to run the scheme themselves. Ongoing support is provided through BTCV's Community Network.

What does it cost?

Nothing! BTCV Green Gym is completely free and you don’t need any special clothes or equipment. We can provide gloves as well as work-boots and waterproofs if you let us know in advance. We can also reimburse childcare costs while you attend a session.

Can I take part?

Everybody is welcome to attend BTCV Green Gym sessions. However, before you take part for the first time please phone us on 0114 2723591 – we will ask you to fill in a questionnaire to check that there are no health issues you need to discuss with your doctor before starting to exercise.

If there are any issues that you would like to discuss in more detail before you come out for the first time, please phone Siân on 0114 2723591 or send us an email at s.hughes@btcv.org.uk.