Fit and Fab marks nine years supporting local women

A drop-in group which supports Knowle West women with ‘healthy living and self-empowerment’ is celebrating nine years in the community.

Sally Clements (56), a Pathways to Health Co-ordinator started Fit and Fab at Knowle West Healthy Living Centre in 2009.

She says: “Everybody celebrates the tenth anniversary and we thought we’d be a bit different.

“With the economic downturn we thought we would celebrate what we have achieved over nine years – which is continuing to support women in the community of all ages….”

The group aims to increase the women’s confidence and self-esteem and combat social isolation – providing a welcoming sanctuary on Thursday mornings to chat and make friends.

Sally explains: “We offer support and advice and opportunities for women to grow and develop and we encourage them to fulfil their potential and move on into other avenues of life.

“Some have got jobs some have become volunteers and some have stayed because of health problems. It’s a nice social group that welcomes all women.”

Over the years there have been regular speakers on topics from nutrition to debt advice – as well as string of activities from belly dancing and therapies to cooking to craft. Members have also trained as Health Champions – going out into the community to support others.

Jackie Lafferty (50) has been attending since the group started. She says: “It gets people involved and gets you out meeting people… coming here is like family.”

At 76, Frances White is the oldest member and started attending the group in 2010 after retirement.

She says: “… I don’t know what I’d do without it, it’s opened doors for me. I’m now a Health Champion and have gone on to further learning and health activities…”

Fit and Fab meets on Thursdays from 10am to midday at Knowle West Healthy Living Centre in Downton Road with a free crèche. Call Sally on 0117 903 0024.