Seeing services in action: CEO and County Council Director Join Age UK Oxfordshire Physical Activity Sessions

Paul Ringer, CEO of Age UK Oxfordshire, and Karen Fuller, Director of Adult Social Care at Oxfordshire County Council, recently joined one of the charity’s physical activity groups in Banbury to experience firsthand the energy, connection and physical benefits these sessions bring to older people across the county.

Held in a local, accessible community centre, the visit began with a Strength and Balance class designed to support older adults in maintaining mobility, independence, and confidence—helping them stay active and do the things they love for longer. Paul and Karen took part alongside participants, chatting with attendees and volunteers, and experiencing for themselves the vital role these activities play in promoting independence and confidence.

The visit also featured an engaging scams awareness talk, showcasing the wider support available within these gatherings.

Afterwards, they met with attendees of Stay Strong and Steady, an evidence-based falls prevention programme commissioned by Oxfordshire County Council and BOB ICB. Originally launched as a pilot in 2023, the programme has demonstrated improvements in strength, balance and independence among people who have experienced falls, reducing demand on health services* and has recently been recommissioned.

One participant shared, “I feel stronger and much more aware of my posture at all times,” while another reflected on the social impact: “Meeting others in similar situations has helped so much.”

Paul and Karen’s visit reflects a shared commitment to building stronger partnerships and designing services that truly reflect the lived experience of Oxfordshire’s older residents.

Karen said: “I was pleased to be able to join our Age UK Oxfordshire partners at a number of sessions recently.

“I thoroughly enjoyed getting involved with the strength and balance class. It was great to speak to the attendees to understand first hand the positive impact these classes have on their mental and physical wellbeing, and how they support people to live well and independently within their communities, remaining fit and healthy for as long as possible – an example of the Oxfordshire Way in action!”

*Comparing the 12-weeks prior to attendance on the programme there was a reduction in the use of health care services (A&E attendances down from 11 to 1%, calling 111 / health professional (GP) due to a fall down from 11% to 3%)