The new ‘Live Well, Live Better’ hubs will offer a wide range of free activities, from movement and exercise sessions to creative workshops, wellbeing groups and social activities.
The programme is expanding across the borough following the success of a pilot at Sidcup Storyteller, where residents took part in activities aimed at improving physical health, mental wellbeing and social connection.
Supported by funding from NHS South East London Integrated Care Board, the new hubs will bring activities into communities and give residents more opportunities to improve their health without having to travel far from home.
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Sessions will be held in libraries across Bexley at different times, including some evenings, making the programme accessible to people with different schedules.
Activities will be delivered alongside community organisations, voluntary groups, cultural partners, activity providers and health and social care services.
The council said the hubs will provide welcoming spaces where residents can meet others, try new activities, build confidence and learn new skills while supporting their physical and mental health.
The focus on prevention is at the heart of the programme, with the aim of helping people stay healthy and independent for longer and potentially reducing the need for more intensive health and social care support in the future.
Councillor Brian Bishop, Cabinet Member for Communities and Housing, described the funding as a “brilliant funding success” and said the initiative reflected the impact libraries could have on local communities.
Councillor Rags Sandhu, Cabinet Member for Environment, Culture and Leisure, said residents would also have opportunities to explore their creativity with local artists, highlighting the health benefits of creative activities.
Councillor Janice Ward-Wilson, Cabinet Member for Adults and Health, said the hubs would bring health, social and creative activities “right into the heart of our communities”.
She added that she was particularly pleased the programme would support older residents and people at greater risk of health problems.
Diana Braithwaite, Director of Integrated Strategic Health & Care for Bexley at NHS South East London Integrated Care Board, said the programme showed what could be achieved when organisations work together.
She said connecting residents with support in their local communities could help people stay active, connected and well while maintaining their health and independence.
Further details, including the libraries involved, activities available and how residents can take part, are expected to be announced soon.