Community Comes Together at Old Catton’s “Move More” Event
A crisp autumn morning welcomed residents of Old Catton as they gathered at the Recreation Ground on Tuesday, October 28, for Broadland District Council’s “Move More” event. The day-long gathering, which ran from 10 AM to 4:30 PM, created a warm and inviting atmosphere where community members could connect, learn about local services, and discover simple ways to improve their wellbeing through physical activity. The event embodied the council’s commitment to fostering healthier lifestyles while making essential support services more accessible to local residents in a relaxed, pressure-free environment.
The “Move More” initiative, thoughtfully organized by the Council’s Help Hub team, represented more than just a fitness promotion. It served as a friendly gateway to the numerous resources available to Broadland residents, many of whom might not otherwise have known where to turn for assistance with personal challenges. Councillor Natasha Harpley, Cabinet Member for Communities & Housing for Broadland District Council, expressed her enthusiasm for the event, describing it as “a lovely opportunity to raise awareness of the practical help and support on offer, while encouraging healthier, more active lifestyles.” This dual focus on physical wellbeing and community support highlighted the council’s holistic approach to improving residents’ quality of life.
Throughout the day, the Recreation Ground buzzed with activity as council staff demonstrated how simple movements can make a significant difference to overall health. The Broadly Active team took center stage, guiding participants through accessible exercises using the park’s outdoor fitness equipment. Their approach was deliberately inclusive, focusing on manageable activities suitable for people of all fitness levels and abilities. Rather than intimidating workouts, attendees were introduced to gentle, sustainable ways to incorporate more movement into their daily routines – proving that improving physical health doesn’t necessarily require intensive gym sessions or specialized equipment.
While physical activity formed the visible cornerstone of the event, equally important was the presence of the Help Hub team, who provided invaluable guidance on a comprehensive range of community services. Representatives were on hand to discuss everything from financial concerns and housing issues to employment opportunities and training programs. These conversations took place in a casual, non-threatening environment, allowing residents to seek advice without the formality or potential anxiety of visiting official offices. Many attendees expressed appreciation for this approach, with several mentioning they felt more comfortable discussing personal challenges in this friendly, outdoor setting than they might have in more formal surroundings.
The “Move More” event exemplified how local government can effectively reach out to communities in ways that feel personal and supportive rather than institutional. As neighbors chatted over refreshments and tried out simple exercises together, the invisible barriers that sometimes exist between service providers and those they aim to help seemed to dissolve. Children played nearby while parents and older residents exchanged stories and experiences, creating a multi-generational community space where wellbeing was the shared focus. Staff members reported meaningful conversations with residents who had been unaware of available services, demonstrating how such casual community events can serve as vital information channels.
This gathering at Old Catton forms part of a wider initiative to promote wellbeing and strengthen community bonds across the Broadland district. Residents interested in learning more about future events or accessing the services discussed are encouraged to search for “Community Engagement Van Broadland” online. As the council continues to bring these resources directly to neighborhoods through similar events, they’re creating more accessible pathways to support and fostering the kind of community connections that contribute significantly to overall wellbeing. The “Move More” day may have concluded as the autumn sun set on October 28, but its impact on community awareness and individual motivation continues to ripple through Old Catton and beyond.
