Member News

Age UK Norwich is calling on local residents aged 50 and over to lace up their trainers and rediscover the joy of the beautiful game, at a slower, more sociable pace. Our Walking Football clubs are going from strength to strength, offering a fun and accessible way for older adults to stay active, make friends, and improve their overall wellbeing.

With the energy and excitement of the Women’s Euros still fresh in our minds, there’s never been a better time to get moving and embrace the game, whatever your age or ability. Whether you’re rekindling an old passion for football or simply curious to try something new, Walking Football offers the perfect opportunity to channel that inspiration into action.

Walking Football is a slower version of the game you know and love – no running, no contact, just plenty of laughter, teamwork and goals. But don’t be fooled, it’s still a great workout! Regular participation can improve cardiovascular fitness, strength, balance and coordination. For many, it’s also a confidence booster and a chance to reconnect with a lifelong passion in a supportive, age-appropriate environment.

Just as important are the mental health benefits. Playing as part of a team builds a sense of purpose and belonging. It combats feelings of isolation and loneliness, especially important in later life, and boosts self-confidence. Every session ends with a chance to socialise over hot drinks and biscuits, strengthening the friendships made on the pitch.

“Walking Football is a brilliant way to improve your physical health without the pressure of intense exercise,” says Thomas Taylor, Health Coach at Age UK Norwich. “It’s all about moving more, boosting your confidence, and having a good laugh with others. You don’t have to be a footballer to get stuck in – just willing to give it a go.”

A club attendee said “This club is the best part of my week. I love having the opportunity to meet new people while enjoying the sport I’ve always been passionate about, in a way that suits my current lifestyle. On top of that, I’ve made some great new friends and seen a big improvement in my fitness.”

We’re proud to offer two weekly Walking Football sessions in Norwich, open to anyone aged 50 or over:

• GOALS, NR1 2GB
  Every Wednesday | 12:30pm – 1:30pm
  SPACES AVAILABLE – contact us to come along and join in!
• The Arena, NR7 9AT
  Every Thursday | 11:00am – 12:00pm
  WAITING LIST IN PLACE – but you can still register your interest.

Whether you’re a former player or completely new to football, our sessions are designed for all abilities. You don’t need to be fit or experienced – just willing to give it a go and have some fun.

So why not come and try it for yourself? If you’re 50 or over, get active, make friends, and enjoy a cuppa at the end. Sign up today and take your first step towards better health and happiness.

As the final chapter of our 80 Years in the Making exhibition closes, we are overwhelmed by the warmth, enthusiasm, and community spirit that filled The Forum from August 4th to 7th.

Dan Skipper, Age UK Norwich CEO said: “What a celebration, not just marking 80 years of Age UK Norwich – but a powerful story of a partnerships with the city.  Norfolk has one of the oldest demographic profiles in the country – therefore our response must be proportionate to the scale of that challenge. I hope our exhibition helped people imagine Norwich as a national leader in positive, healthy ageing –  that is the future we want to build. By investing in Age UK Norwich, and by partnering with us, you will be driving real change – for older people, for families, and for the city and county.”

From a packed and enthusiastic launch to a week of meaningful conversation and heartfelt connection, the response has been nothing short of inspiring. 

We extend our deepest gratitude to:

• Aviva, Home Instead Norwich, and Hatch Brenner Solicitors, whose generous sponsorship underpinned the entire event and enabled us to think big.

• Image Experiential and CIM Signs, whose creative design and execution brought the exhibition to life, transforming archives and stories into an immersive experience.

• The Forum, for hosting us in such a welcoming and vibrant space.

Our heartfelt thanks also go to our exceptional speakers and partners, whose contributions shaped the week’s energy and impact:
Age UK (both the national team and CEO Paul Farmer); GaitSmart; Centre for Ageing Better; Home Instead Norwich; Dragon Hall Society; Barclays; Konnect Bus; John Gordon‑Saker and the History of Brands; Reflex Theatre; and Hatch Brenner, as well as former CEO Brenda Arthur your voices and perspectives were integral to the conversation.

To all local change‑makers, volunteers, advocates, and community members who joined us on opening day and throughout the week: thank you.

You reaffirmed that in Norwich, local doesn’t mean small it means bold.

Our exhibition began with a powerful launch, a full house and an engaged audience set the tone for a week that combined nostalgia with forward thinking. Visitors explored archive photographs, loved ones’ stories, and the evolution of Age UK Norwich since our founding in 1945. They took part in talks, digital inclusion sessions, health advice, Age Friendly Norwich feedback, and more — experiences that served both to educate and empower. 

The reach extended online too: social media posts and community shares amplified the exhibition’s stories far beyond The Forum’s walls. Yet, what remains most powerful is the simple magic of face‑to‑face moments, conversations across generations, tears of recognition, and new friendships formed.

Continuing the Journey

While the exhibition has ended, our mission continues. We remain dedicated to our £80,000 fundraising goal, now more driven than ever by the momentum and connections forged during the week.

Age UK Norwich has long stood against loneliness, championing lunch clubs, befriending, advice services, and advocacy as core pillars of our work — and this exhibition was a bold affirmation of our city’s age‑friendly model of living well later in life.

Thank you, Norwich, for celebrating with us, reflecting with us, and laying the foundation for the next 80 years of care, dignity, and community.

• Age UK Norwich has uncovered how the East of England truly feels about certain exercises – from the most loved and the most hated, to the most avoided at all costs – with Lifestyle GP and Personal Trainer, Dr Hussain Al-Zubaidi, providing the ultimate solutions
• Alongside this, the national Charity has revealed some of the weirdest and most wonderful ways Brits – including broadcasting legend, Angela Rippon – are choosing to get in their daily dosage of movement around the house instead
• This forms part of Age UK’s Act Now, Age Better campaign, which launched earlier this year and encourages everyone to take action and age in the best way possible – starting with staying active

The importance of regularly moving your body and increasing your heart rate to improve your chances of living a long and healthy life is well-known[i]. Yet, some exercises fill many people with nothing but dread.

Following the launch of Age UK’s Act Now, Age Better campaign, which encourages people to make small, proactive changes that could help improve their physical health and the quality of their later years, Age UK Norwich has revealed[ii] how the East of England truly feels about certain exercises, and it’s official – burpees are the region’s most hated, with over one in three people (1.7 million) feeling this way.

This is closely followed by:

• Punishing push-ups (1.6 million)
• Challenging chin-ups (1.4 million)
• Strenuous squats (1.4 million)
• Crippling crunches (1.3 million)

Burpees are also one of the most hated exercises across the border, over in London, however they are narrowly beaten by push-ups – which are despised by over a quarter of that region’s population (1.9 million).

What about the most loved? Well, it seems, the East of England is a region of squatters and lungers, with 1.1 million being a sucker for a squat and 870,000 loving a lunge.

Age UK Norwich’s polling has also uncovered that many people living in the East of England haven’t ever tried to do some other exercises, with over half of the region’s population (2.7 million) having never done a mountain climber, and similar numbers having never attempted a side plank (2.5 million) or a box jump (2.4 million). Moreover, nearly one in five residents (970,000) don’t know how to do a mountain climber and 770,000 don’t know how to do a box jump.

In response to this, Lifestyle GP and Personal Trainer, Dr Hussain Al-Zubaidi, says: “It’s easy to feel put off by the word, ‘exercise’. When it’s used, we often picture someone at full blast, hot and sweaty, maybe running or lifting what seems like too much weight in an impressive gym setup. But ‘exercise’ is anything that gets us moving and it all counts. That’s why with patients and clients I use the word ‘movement’! Most importantly, it must be something we enjoy and feel benefit from. There are things we can do in our everyday lives to mimic the classic ‘exercises’ and still reap the benefits.

“For example, the dreaded push-up can be done against a wall or sofa rest during movement breaks after time sat down. Eventually, as your upper body gets stronger, you may be able to do them from the floor. Start adding in some jumping jacks in between push-ups and you are also then tackling similar elements to a burpee. To tackle elements of the plank, you can hold your push up variation for as long as you can whilst tensing your core. Bear crawls around the house are a fantastic way to get in some cardiovascular and strength training at the same time.”

And it seems there are lots of different ways people are getting creative at home to squeeze more activity into their busy lives. In fact, when the general population were asked how they are physically active at home, one in five Brits (11 million) say they run up and down the stairs, and one in 10 (5.4 million) use chairs or the sofa for tricep dips or elevated push-ups.

But what about those who really don’t have a minute to spare? Well, it turns out over 8 million people do exercises such as squats or lunges while waiting for the kettle to boil, and nearly 5.5 million balance on one leg while brushing their teeth.

So, it seems multi-tasking could be the way forward, with over 3 million adding that they regularly do a bit of hoover-grooving, others hula hooping while reading (yes, that’s right…) and over 1 million even taking after Coleen Rooney and squatting in the shower[iii]!

In fact, star of the TV screen Angela Rippon, agrees – exclusively telling Age UK: “Our bodies are machines that are full of thousands of moving parts. And like any machine, if we don’t keep those parts oiled and moving, they will seize up and let us down. Dancing is one of the best exercises you can do for the health and wellbeing of your mind as well as your body. So just let yourself go and move to the music on the radio. I often get up and dance to the music of the commercials that come up in my favourite TV programme. 

“Just have fun, and whatever exercise you do, think of it as making an investment in your wellbeing pension plan, so that you can have a long, happy and healthy life.”

However, it’s not just parts of the home that are getting involved in people’s healthy lifestyles. Age UK’s findings also suggest that everyday household items are playing their part, with 6 million Brits saying they have incorporated cans or jars into an at-home exercise routine.

These cupboard staples are closely followed by:

• Water bottles (5.4 million)
• Pillows or cushions (4.9 million)
• Towels (3.8 million)
• And even shopping bags (1.6 million) – giving a whole new meaning to the term, ‘bag for life’!

Other items that Brits say they have used in an at-home workout before include oil drums, firewood logs and even milk bottles filled with pebbles – staying green whilst getting lean!

Finally, over 1 million people have their pets join them in an at-home workout, with one saying they have dance sessions with all four of their dogs, another who holds their pet on their chest as a weight while doing sit-ups and a third whose feline friend loves to climb on their back during yoga!

Dan Skipper, CEO of Age UK Norwich, says: “Here in Norwich, we’re lucky to have parks, riverside walks and beautiful green spaces right on our doorstep – all perfect for keeping active in ways that feel fun and achievable. Whether it’s a gentle stroll through Eaton Park, cycling along Marriott’s Way, or even dancing in your living room on a rainy day, every bit of movement counts. At Age UK Norwich, we see every day how small changes can make a big difference to people’s wellbeing, helping them stay healthy, independent and connected to the community they love.”

Age UK’s Act Now, Age Better campaign raises vital awareness of the importance of making small changes to help improve the quality of our later years. For more information, as well as advice and inspiration from Dr Hussain’s informative guide to healthier ageing, please visit: www.ageuk.org.uk/actnow, and do speak to your GP or health practitioner if ever unsure.

Act Now, Age Better Campaign

Getting older is a privilege, but one that can come with many challenges. While we can’t prevent ageing, we can take action earlier on in life to help us to age in the best way possible.

Find out moreAge UK Norwich Clubs

Our range of clubs in local communities across the city are places where you can learn new skills, socialise with new people, and keep your body and mind active.

Find out more

[i] https://www.ageuk.org.uk/siteassets/documents/act-now-age-better/act-now-age-better-leaflet-by-age-uk.pdf

[ii] Age UK calculation based on data (weighted to be representative of the UK & relevant regional population) from Yonder online polling for Age UK, August 2025 (weighted sample of 2075 people aged 18+ in the UK, collected March 2025) and ONS mid-year 2023 population estimates (published 8th October 2024).

[iii] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2md02B5VCMk

Yesterday, the Government announced it is considering introducing compulsory eye tests for motorists aged over 70 as part of a major new road safety strategy, expected to be published this autumn. The proposed measures form part of what ministers describe as the most significant shake-up of UK driving laws in almost two decades.

Under current rules, all drivers over the age of 70 must renew their driving licence and their photograph every three years. At the time of renewal, any relevant eyesight problems must be reported to the DVLA – although conditions such as short-sightedness, long-sightedness, or colour blindness are excluded from these requirements.

Additionally, everyone over the age of 60 is entitled to a free NHS eye examination every two years.

The new proposals could see drivers over 70 required to pass a compulsory eye test to keep their licence, with those failing potentially being banned from driving. Other expected measures in the forthcoming road safety strategy include:

• A possible reduction in the legal drink-drive limit.
• Penalty points for drivers whose passengers fail to wear a seatbelt.
• Tougher penalties for uninsured drivers.

Caroline Abrahams, Charity Director at Age UK, said:

“It is certainly good for our eye health as we age to have a regular eye test – every two years, the NHS advises – but this doesn’t automatically mean that a compulsory eye test at age 70 is appropriate. People can develop eye problems at any age, so why confine such an approach only to those aged 70 and not to younger drivers too? A regular eye test for drivers of all ages may be a better idea, one less open to the accusation of ageism – but we would need to see all the evidence to form a final view.”

Dan Skipper, Chief Executive Officer of Age UK Norwich, added:

“Anything to reduce serious injury or fatalities is a positive, but the issue of sight and eye tests is not related to the age of the driver, and if a serious factor to road accidents – then all drivers should be in scope. With today’s technology, sight and/or hearing test records could easily be linked to any licence application – in a similar way to MOT and insurance checks.

Younger drivers still have more accidents, and evidence shows a growing use of mobile phone use while driving and accidents. Where there is a collision with an older driver, it is often reported in the media, with ageist undertones, that old age was a factor – when statistically, it was more likely to be the younger driver. Irrespective of someone’s age, road safety needs to be the priority.”

Age UK Norwich is committed to promoting safety, wellbeing, and independence for older people in the city. The charity offers information and advice on health, vision care, and local services that help older people maintain mobility and confidence on the road.

In the driving seat information guide

Our In the driving seat information guide outlines some legal, practical, and personal considerations to take into account when thinking about driving in later life – from renewing your licence to having a driving assessment. It also suggests other ways you can get out and about if you have to stop driving.

Find out moreFurther information

Further information and advice about driving as you get older is available on the Age UK website.

Find out more

Calling RCP “a driving force for change in its sector”, the judges praised the company’s “interesting and dynamic approach towards solving problems and assuring optimal customer satisfaction”. 

They added that the business has “a strong track record of quantifiable and measured success across commerciality, team focus and sustainability” and commended the “impressive” team for leading the charge on “sustainability, technology, equality and diversity”. 

They also called director Sarah an “exceptional leader”. 

“This award means so much,” said Sarah. “It’s so rewarding to be recognised as part of the community.  

“We’re really proud of what we do and the ways we’re changing the industry.” 

She went on to say how proud she is of the RCP Parking team, stating “this award is for them”. 

There’s a new resource in our local business community. Rob Town, founder of Kickstart Business Growth, has joined the UK Government’s Help to Grow: Management Programme as an official mentor.

I’m excited to share that I’ve recently joined the UK Government’s Help to Grow: Management Programme as an official business mentor.

If you’re in Norwich and Norfolk, I’m here to help you:

. Get clear on where you’re heading (and how to get there)

. Build a stronger business strategy

. Make more confident decisions

. Create a better work–life balance

. Keep your business strong for the long term

For me, it’s all about helping local businesses and self-employed people not just get by, but actually enjoy running their business.

If you ever fancy a coffee and chat about your business ideas, challenges, or next steps, I’m always happy to meet up. Talking things through makes a huge difference.

Click here to find out more about how I can help your business. –Rob

NU Image is swapping keyboards for paddles this September, as the team takes on a full 26.2-mile rowing marathon, ‘the Ma’Row’thon’ to raise vital funds for the Norwich City Community Sports Foundation (NCCSF).

With support from Norfolk Yacht Agency and Whitlingham Adventure, eight members of the NU Image team will row a katakanu along the Norfolk Broads from Brundall to Norwich and back again, cheered on by a dedicated support boat armed with snacks and music to keep spirits high.

Raising money for Norwich City Community Sports Foundation

The NCCSF is a charity dedicated to empowering people through sport, running community and inclusion programmes that make a real difference. This year, NU Image’s fundraising will support The Nest, the Foundation’s community hub with sports facilities, meeting spaces, and a café where transformative projects take place — from dementia support groups and Pan-Disability football sessions to coffee mornings for veterans.

The charity holds a particularly special place in the heart of NU Image’s Director and Head of Digital, Emily, thanks to her connection with Hope, a 19-year-old participant in the Foundation’s Realising Potential programme. Hope has grown from a shy child into a confident young leader, now volunteering and coaching at The Nest, and it’s a transformation made possible by the NCCSF’s care and dedication.

How to support the Ma’Row’thon

The challenge takes place on Friday 19th September, starting at Norfolk Yacht Agency in Brundall, travelling along the River Yare into Norwich city centre, and returning the same way.

You can support NU Image’s efforts in two ways:

– Donate directly via their JustGiving page — every pound goes to NCCSF’s life-changing projects.

– Cheer them on at top viewing spots like The Red Lion Bishopgate, The Compleat Angler, or The Ribs of Beef as the team rows through Norwich.

Oar you ready to get behind them?

Read the full story, including Hope’s inspiring journey, on the NU Image blog.

Founded by Norfolk-based filmmaker Jack Sauverin, best known for his work on Labour’s 2024 General Election, Party Political Broadcasts and on feature films such as Rogue One, Camarilla brings a fresh blend of cinematic storytelling and strategic communications to the region (and beyond).

The boutique video production company works with public figures, councils, philanthropists, and purpose-led organisations, delivering emotionally resonant video content designed to influence, persuade, and build trust. Services range from high-end branded documentary to rapid-response digital content, strategic consultation, as well as iPhone video training for comms teams.

“We’re excited to put down roots in Norfolk and help local leaders, businesses and institutions tell their stories with clarity and confidence. Whether it’s a housing initiative, a cultural campaign or a founder’s legacy film, we approach it with the same strategic care and cinematic quality.”

Jack has already delivered European Digital Impact award-winning work for the DWP, had fiction work shown at Picture House Cinemas across the UK, with a growing footprint across life sciences, philanthropy, and public engagement we’re ready to deploy a decade of experience.

To find out more about Camarilla or explore collaboration opportunities, visit www.camarilla.co.uk

SEO can feel like a mystery, especially when you’re busy running your business. That’s why we’ve created a free, easy-to-read SEO guide you can download and start implementing.

Inside, you’ll learn:

– How search engines decide which websites rank at the top

– Simple steps to make your site more visible

– How to attract the right visitors, the ones who are ready to buy, book, or get in touch

No jargon, no fluff, just straightforward, practical advice you can put into action today.

It’s completely free, and it could be the first step to getting your business seen by more of the people who matter most.

👉 Download your free guide here: smashmarketing.co.uk/learn-seo

We are proud to have supported Pride Month this year with a Rainbow Bake, raising over £220 for The LGBTQ+ Project – a local charity providing vital support across Norfolk and Waveney.

The event brought together team members from across Leading and other businesses located in Lawrence House, with colleagues baking, buying, and donating to raise funds and awareness. The bake sale was not only a celebration of Pride, but a show of solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community and the important work of The LGBTQ+ Project.

The event also included a “Best Decorated Bake” competition, which showcased the creativity and enthusiasm of the team — with our team member Rebeckah taking home the title for her vibrant, rainbow-themed creation!

The LGBTQ+ Project offers one-to-one support, drop-in groups, and mental health services to over 750 people every year, with 75% reporting improved mental health through their programmes. The money raised will go directly toward sustaining these essential services within the local community.

We’re proud to support a charity doing such meaningful work locally. Our Pride Bake Sale was a small but joyful way for us to celebrate inclusivity while giving back to the community we’re part of!

We’re Here When You’re Ready

At Leading, an experienced insolvency and business restructuring firm, we believe in having early, honest conversations — because the sooner we talk, the more options we can explore together.

If your business is experiencing financial stress, or you’re supporting a client who is, we’re here to help. We offer confidential, no-obligation guidance tailored to each situation.

We’re happy to speak directly with business owners, or work in partnership with accountants, HR professionals, or other advisers.

You can contact our friendly and experienced team on 01603 552028 or email us at mail@leading.uk.com.

🚨 Shield Health & Safety – This Week’s 🚨

We’ve still got a few August refresher training dates available:
📅 18th, 19th, 21st, 22nd, 27th, 28th & 29th
📞 Get in touch to secure your spot!

It’s great to see lots of bookings for September already – planning ahead makes all the difference. We’ve also welcomed new customers this week and we’re always grateful for the continued support from our long-term clients. Building lasting relationships is what we’re all about.

💬 Recent feedback has been brilliant:
🩺 First Aid Training – “Great trainer, well communicated, educational, friendly & professional… the most engaging first aid course I’ve had in 13 years.”
Reach Truck Training – “Formal, easy to understand, friendly & supportive… really eased my apprehension.”

Feedback like this keeps us consistent and ensures every course is a positive experience.

👶 One of our instructors became a proud father again this week – to a litter of adorable puppies! 🐶

🌾 And finally, we shared a beautiful photo of the Norfolk countryside – a freshly harvested field, a reminder of the hard work our farmers put in all year round despite the challenges of the British weather. And yes… the Shield van made it into the shot!

Get in touch & send us a photo of your local countryside!

#HealthAndSafety #Training #FirstAid #ReachTruck #Norfolk #ShieldHealthAndSafety #ClientFeedback #Teamwork

Our August edition of the Swarm newsletter has just been published and we would like to invite you to take a look.  It is a snapshot from inside the apprenticeship world at Swarm and is designed with busy employers in mind who just want an overview of what’s been going on and to stay up to date.  Our email version gives you a summary of the stories and headlines so you can quickly scan and read just what you’re interested in. You can register here to receive the email version each quarter and you can unsubscribe at any time.  We won’t contact you with anything else, just because you are signed up to receive our newsletter.

We share latest news, insights, practical tools, success stories and just general goings on that you might find useful to get a feel for how apprenticeships can benefit you in your organisation or how you can maximise their benefit if you are already using the scheme.

Here’s what you’ll find inside our August edition:

·       Welcome message from our Swarm Training CEO

·       The “All About Apprenticeships” event at The Forum

·       Changes to the Off-the-Job rules on training hours

·       Meet Izzy, one of our brilliant Marketing Apprentices, and hear her story

·       The launch of the new Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship at Swarm Training

·       Upcoming events

·       Our business activities at the Royal Norfolk Show

·       Spotlight on our Accounting tutor

·       Insight from our sister company, Swarm Recruitment, on skills based hiring

·       Our regular feature on Safeguarding and Wellbeing

Click here to access the full pdf newsletter

Or subscribe below to receive our email summary of The Buzz news stories each quarter:
”The Buzz” Swarm’s quarterly newsletter | Subscribe Here