RiversMeet Active in Gillingham this month opens its brand-new ‘Wellbeing Hub’ – an ambitious, community-first initiative that goes far beyond fitness.

Designed to address the physical, mental, and social health needs of local residents, the hub at the popular leisure centre is a pioneering model for Dorset, reflecting a growing national movement toward community-based health solutions that relieve the strain on overstretched NHS services.

Integrated with RiversMeet’s GP referral programme, the hub offers low-impact classes for people recovering from illness or injury, living with long-term health conditions, or seeking to improve overall wellbeing. Sessions are ‘accessible and inclusive’, ensuring all members of the community feel welcome and supported, says the leisure centre.

Dorset Mind, a self-funded local charity supporting people’s mental health, now works from the Wellbeing Hub every Monday. Offering a mental health drop-in provision, not only will their presence support the local community with wellbeing needs, but it will also aim to work harmoniously with the GP referral pathways already in place at RiversMeet Active.

Future plans include access to physiotherapy, sports massage, counselling, nutrition groups, anxiety and parent support sessions, and discreet contraception services for students.

‘We’re very excited to be building on this impressive scheme whilst working in partnership with vital local resources. We’re on a mission to improve the health of our community, watch this space!’ says Jake, general manager at RiversMeet Active.

Gillingham-based Dextra Group say they are ‘delighted’ to have worked with RiversMeet Active, supporting the set-up of the Wellbeing Hub. They hope that the hub can support their employees, wider families and the local community, providing an accessible wellbeing resource for all.

Organisers say the Wellbeing Hub is ‘grounded in accessibility and inclusivity’, and aims to provide a safe and welcoming space for everyone – from those with long-term health conditions to students, carers, and older adults. More than a gym, they say, it is a ‘vital community resource’ for Gillingham and beyond, promoting health, connection, and support.

For more information visit: www.riversmeetgillingham.org/gp-referral.php