The free, family-friendly, NHS-organised event offered a day of sport, fitness and wellbeing activities, giving local people the opportunity to get active, try something new and learn more about support available in their area.
The games are run by East London NHS Foundation Trust (ELFT), with leisure operator GLL's Better as the main partner, and are co-produced with the Trust's patients. The games are part of ELFT's population health approach to improve the health and wellbeing of communities by making physical activity welcoming and easy to access. Research has shown that exercise can be beneficial for people living with severe mental illness, improving both mental health symptoms and physical health outcomes.
Running from 10am to 4pm, the day offered a packed programme for every age and ability, from Zumba, gym circuits and squash to running, fitness sessions and seated exercises. Free yoga was led by a Better instructor, alongside classes from EDGA Golf and Kelly's Mixed Martial Arts. Away from the activities, families could take a gym tour, enjoy inflatables and children's activities, pick up advice at information stalls, or stop by the on-site cafe, and free health assessments were on hand for anyone at the venue.
More than 20 local organisations helped make the day possible, offering activities, advice and support, among them Family Hubs, Be Active Beds, Blue Sky Carers Support, Move Against Cancer, Bedford Hospital, and many more.
Mohammad Yasin, Member of Parliament for Bedford and Kempston, joined guests, staff and partners to try the activities and see the games in action. The day closed with a lively performance from dance school Born to Perform, a real highlight of the day.
ELFT Health Development Coordinator Steve Muggridge said:
"The event is brought to people in partnership with all of our community partners, including our main partner, GLL's Better, and it was co-produced with our service users.
"It was run with zero funding, and it was an amazing opportunity for the people of Luton and Bedford, our patients, and our stakeholders, to get involved in physical activity."
Better Community Sports Manager Aaron Colbert said:
"We were proud to work alongside East London NHS Foundation Trust to host the Wellbeing Games to bring local people together to enjoy inclusive activities that supported both physical and mental wellbeing.
"The event showed what can be achieved through partnership, creating opportunities for people to get active and make new connections in a welcoming environment. It was great to see such a positive community, and we'd like to thank everyone who helped make the day a success."