Just Annual Report and Accounts 2019

44 JUST GROUP PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2019

INVESTING IN Fulfilling OUR PURPOSE

Just get active

In 2019 we have been investing in our communities to help older adults get active for a happier, healthier life through our new programme, Just Get Active

I t’s easy to feel that sport is a younger person’s game – but we believe that sport belongs to everyone. In fact, there’s a huge number of sports that have been adapted to suit players who want to get involved later in life. No matter what their age or ability, whether people fancy playing or supporting from the sidelines, it’s never too late to bring sport into people’s lives. For us at Just, the solution lies in walking sports. There’s no running – instead, people play sports at their pace in a sociable, fun and inclusive environment. It can be as exhausting or energetic as much as they want it to be! There’s no pressure. Just are raising awareness of walking sports as an alternative way to introduce exercise into people’s lives and guide them to opportunities to get involved. Walking sports are just what they sound like – versions of sports like football, cricket or hockey that follow the rules of the standard game, but the players walk instead of run. They’re great if people want the fun of the game without the strenuous pace and intense contact. After all, sport of any kind has so many benefits for both physical and mental health – it reduces the risk of many illnesses, from heart disease to dementia, as well as combating loneliness and depression. So, we’re here to make it as easy as possible for people to be part of a sporting community. So we’ve been encouraging people to just get active – at their own pace, in their own style – and have lots of fun along the way!

GETTING INVOLVED Getting involved in the fun isn’t limited to playing on the pitch. If people can whip up a mean Victoria sponge or fancy blowing the whistle from the sidelines, they can become a volunteer. That way they can enjoy the social life without working up a sweat playing sport. There truly is something for everyone. Staying active as you get older can help people to live a happier and healthier life, as exercise is proven to do all kinds of good things for body and mind – from decreasing cholesterol and preventing osteoporosis to reducing stress and helping with the onset of dementia. In fact, there are remarkable walking sports players living with dementia who find they benefit from the exercise. Walking sports are especially a fun way to keep people’s energy up, make new friends, and look after their health. And after a session, it will be the best tasting slice of cake and a cuppa with friends that they’ll have all week!