Operator opens first-of-a-kind wellbeing drop-in hub at Havant shopping centre

HORIZON Leisure, a charitable health and wellbeing provider in Havant, has opened a wellbeing drop-in centre for local residents at Meridian Shopping Centre.

The Horizon Wellbeing Hub is located on the ground floor of the shopping mall.

The drop-in centre will offer the local community: n Free health checks. n Health interventions, such as weight management programmes. n Exercise orientation through its ‘Foundations Programme’, which has been designed as a supportive route into physical activity. n Small group exercise classes.

The hub is an informal, welcoming and relaxed safe space to access exercise and advice, staffed by Horizon Leisure’s team of professionals.

Horizon Leisure is committed to inspiring healthier and happier communities and, as part of that, is keen to increase public accessibility to physical activity in a wider range of places and spaces.

CEO Mike Lyons said: “We are committed to providing community health initiatives for the people of Havant, and this first-of-its-kind outreach programme, which was funded through Havant Borough Council, is designed to connect with anyone and everyone.

“We understand that coming to our leisure centres may not suit everyone, and so this drop in centre allows local people to pop in and meet with our team of experts, helping them to access physical activity and positive lifestyle choices in an environment that’s familiar to them.

“Everyone is welcome, but we are particularly keen to target those who are not confident with physical activity, and particularly those who find the leisure centre a daunting space.

“Health and wellbeing should be available to all, whatever your age, background or ability, and this initiative reduces barriers by meeting people where they are.

“We urge the local community to pop in on their way to the shops or on their way to meet a friend.”

The launch was attended by the Mayor of Havant, Rosy Raines, the Mayor’s Consort Mr Graham Raines and Deputy Leader of the Council, Councillor Gwen Robinson.

Attendees to the launch were shown around the facility and received health checks from Horizon Leisure’s team of experts.

Councillor Alex Rennie, leader of Havant Borough Council, added: “I’m delighted to see the launch of the Horizon Wellbeing Hub, and proud to have worked in partnership with Horizon Leisure to provide such a fantastic facility. The council recognises the tremendous benefits this can provide to the health and wellbeing of our residents, and I look forward to seeing the hub flourish.”