Calls for public to help others keep fit in 2025

A walking netball group is among initiatives set up to help people stay fit

Kent County Council is on the hunt for Everyday Active champions to help people across the county keep fit in 2025.

Everyday Active encourages people to improve their physical health, boost their mental wellbeing and meet new people, the authority said.

Former NHS health trainer Julie Calder is a champion for the Isle of Sheppey, and says the role allows her to "really make a difference".

"I love my champion role because it is so diverse and it allows me to support clubs, services and residents to help more people become more active, more often," she said.

"It ranges from working with an individual and delivering a home exercise programme to working with services like Parkinson's UK, or helping a local instructor set up a walking netball group."

The county council is also offering support in 2025 to get people moving, help them achieve a healthy weight, make healthy food choices, cut down on alcohol consumption, and stop smoking, the authority said.

Dr Ellen Schwartz, the authority's deputy direction of public health, said: "To stay fit and healthy it's recommended adults get about 20 to 30 minutes a day of exercise.

"But even a daily 11-minute brisk walk is beneficial and can ease aches and pains, particularly in your lower back, hips and legs."

Anyone interested in becoming an Everyday Active champion in their area should contact the county council.