PENNY Scoynes, the Volunteer and Activity co-ordinator for the Westbank Healthy Neighbourhood’s Project, gave a presentation to members of the Crediton and Area Branch of Devon Senior Voice (DSV) at their July meeting.

Westbank itself is based in Exminster and has grown from a League of Friends operating from GP’s surgery in Exminster and Starcross, to an organisation covering a large area of Devon.

The Healthy Neighbourhood’s Project is funded by the Big Lottery and is working in partnership with various local organisations, including Drink Wise/Age Well and Active Devon, as well as volunteers, to help communities become healthier and more resilient.

Westbank offers a broad spectrum of community-based support, from exercise groups for young mothers ie. pushchair and pram walks to facilitating information sessions such as Live Wise and Age Well.

Through discussion with the DSV group, it was identified that bespoke exercise groups for the elderly to increase mobility and confidence would be beneficial as well as exercise sessions for the over 50s to help prevent stiff joints and balance issues.

It is hoped that, in the near future, talks will take place with a variety of interested groups and organisations to secure funding and a venue and trained facilitator for sessions in Crediton can be found.

DSV Chair, Carole Towler, thanked Penny for her talk and invited her to stay for refreshments which was followed by the monthly committee meeting.

The next meeting will be at the Meadow Suite, Lords Meadow Leisure Centre, on Wednesday, August 9 from 2pm to 4pm.

The speaker will be Ron Cuthbertson, who will be giving a talk about his childhood memories.

For more information call Carole Towler on 01392 851600.