Community Safety Partnership

Excerpts from diaries
Class Diamonds
Citadel Ayr

Week 1

My first class
Really enjoyed the exercises and activities. Since I moved to Ayr I have felt like an outsider but for the first time I felt comfortable and alive again. The instructors were friendly and make me feel I could make a start on my new life here. I feel good and now look forward to next week.

First week of Class Diamonds.
Warmly greeted on arrival.
Activity “tasters” fun. Enjoyed skittles, bowling and curling.
Tea, coffee and biscuit very welcome.
Received plastic envelope with programme, pen, spiral backed note-book.
I think I am going to enjoy myself.

Made very welcome. Short talk and health check. Exercise on chair quite stimulating.

Week 2

Enjoyed the keep-fit warm up. The talk by the physiotherapists was very good. Have passed on the tips on “What to do if you have a fall” to several other people and intend to pass on leaflets etc. when interest shown. Have tried to adapt the exercises so that I can do some of them. Also enjoyed the company who are very helpful. Being disabled some people treat you differently but in this group I feel very welcome.

Missed the first meeting so went very reluctantly---HATE organised PE STUFF! Like going back to school days! BUT the Tai Chi was wonderful !! Decided to go back next week.

Week 3

Talk by the dietician on preventing osteoporosis was very interesting, and that chocolate is good for you! 30 minutes of fresh air builds up your Vitamin D.

Tai Chi my first personal experience-a very stimulating and exhilarating session.

Week 4

The ½ hour exercise session was excellent and always fun. Each member of the group was encouraged to work at their own pace and ability and those members of the group who required assistance and encouragement always received it.

This talk I found really helpful and the police-woman who attended was very good. I found it interesting to see first hand all the accoutrements attached to her belt!

Week 5

Joined the class very late. I am not a “ joiner “ by nature but came along out of curiosity not to join but just to observe. However I was made to feel most welcome and encouraged to sign up. I was impressed with their professional attitude, I was sent individually to visit a nurse who checked my blood pressure and general health.

Week 6

Enjoyed the talk on services that can help you. Living alone and looking after myself since my wife died, it is good to know that as I become less able, help is at hand.

Note: Class Diamonds is a 12 week health and activity programme specially designed for people over 65, living in South Ayrshire.