Six things

6

outdoor groups in Bexley

As autumn approaches and the days get shorter, it is easy to ‘batten down the hatches,’ close our doors and stay inside. But we all know that staying healthy, keeping fit and looking after our mental wellbeing is important at any time of the year. Here are six local groups that meet outdoors either for health, fun or to offer the chance to meet new people.

1 GoodGym helps you get fit by doing good. They are a group of runners that combine regular exercise with helping our communities. If you’re a community organisation and have a physical task then they would like to help. Visit www.goodgym.org/bexley

2 Men in Sheds Bexley is a community group for men to come together, make things and most importantly have fun! They are based in the grounds of Christ Church Erith, just behind the church hall. Men in Sheds is a service run by Age UK Bexley. Visit www.meninshedsbexley.com

3 Friends of…The London Borough of Bexley’s parks and open spaces have for many years received tremendous support from volunteers, who have helped to create clean, well-maintained parks and open spaces. The work of the volunteers varies from tree whip and bulb planting, litter clearing, maintenance of herbaceous borders, clearance of heathland, maintenance and caring for the Old English Garden at Danson Park. Visit www.bexley.gov.uk/services/ parks-leisure-and-libraries/friendsgroups/become-friend 4 Mind in Bexley green spaces project aims to improve mental health and well-being by offering individuals the chance to get involved in a range of conservation, food growing and gardening tasks at the Mind in Bexley allotment. The project works to support people to truly reconnect with themselves, with others and with the natural world. The project is open to anyone with direct experience of mental distress. You do not need to have a formal diagnosis. Visit www.mindinbexley.org.uk/opens-spaces

5 Friends of the Shuttle volunteers meet at various points along the River Shuttle to clear litter from the channel and keep it clear for wildlife and for those who enjoy walking along its banks. Their work also includes river enhancement, wildlife walks and surveying, removal of invasive species and talking to the general public about what the River Shuttle has to offer. Visit www.facebook.com/FriendsoftheShuttle

6 Walking for Health Bexley has a health walk running throughout the week. All our walks are lead by qualified and friendly walk leaders, and there is normally a drink and chat either during or at the end of each walk. Please note that only registered assistance dogs are allowed on these walks. Smoking is not allowed on any of our walks. Visit www.walkingforhealth.org.uk/walkfinder/ bexley-healthy-walks