Wiltshire shares GOGA spirit to get people active

Wiltshire is one of five areas that will continue to run the Get Out Get Active programme into 2025 thanks to new funding from Sport England and London Marathon Foundation.

Get Out Get Active is a national activity programme that leans on local expertise to engage the very least active in communities. It is designed to bring disabled and non-disabled people together to enjoy the benefits of sport and physical activity.

Wiltshire and Swindon Sport (WASP) will continue to work with organisations across the region to engage people who would like to be more active. Over the past few years they have run everything from seated exercise indoor programmes to Tai Chi and New Age Kurling.

Dominique Oughton, Operations Manager for Wiltshire and Swindon Sport (WASP) said:

"We are really pleased and excited to be continuing our journey as a GOGA locality in Wiltshire, with our partners Age UK Wiltshire, Community First, Wiltshire Council & Wiltshire Centre for Independent Living.

"Over the next six to eight months we aim to further enrich the lives of our local community by promoting inclusivity and providing accessible opportunities for physical activity. GOGA is more than just a programme, it’s a movement that fosters a sense of belonging, improves wellbeing, and empowers individuals to lead healthier lives."

Dominique Oughton

One successful session was described by Andy Powlesland in the Active Together podcast. He talked through the benefits of weekly opportunities to help maintain a community garden at a stately home alongside veterans. He candidly talked about the difference the group has made to his life.

Andy’s experiences highlight exactly what GOGA hopes to achieve, something that Dominique is incredibly aware of. She added: “For our participants, GOGA represents a supportive network where everyone, regardless of ability, can experience the joy and benefits of an active lifestyle."