Bringing Movement to the Community:
Yoga Now Free on NHS Referral in West Cumbria
Cumbria Yoga Foundation has been awarded funding by Copeland NHS Integrated Care Community to offer Yoga on Prescription in the form of free therapeutic chair yoga classes now available in Cleator Moor and Whitehaven.
This innovative programme aims to support local people who may be struggling with physical health conditions, isolation, or stress by making gentle, accessible yoga available by referral.
”“This is a truly exciting development for community wellbeing in West Cumbria. Chair yoga is safe, welcoming and effective, especially for those who face physical or emotional barriers to exercise. These sessions help people connect, move their bodies safely, and feel part of something positive and supportive.”
Caroline RobinsonFounding Chair, Cumbria Yoga Foundation
Classes are specifically designed to be inclusive of all abilities. Participants are guided through seated yoga postures and breathing exercises to support strength and flexibility. Evidence has shown that regular yoga practice helps people with high blood pressure, heart disease, aches and pains (including lower back pain), depression and stress. NHS (www.nhs.uk)
”“Cumbria Yoga Foundation’s ‘Yoga on Prescription’ is a fantastic initiative that will provide an opportunity for patients to access yoga in a structured and inclusive way. There’s strong evidence showing participation in yoga sessions can benefit a wide range of physical and mental health conditions, symptoms and social challenges. It provides a truly holistic approach to wellbeing in alignment with current NICE guidance. This project has the potential to support people in taking greater ownership of their health, empowering them to make sustainable improvements. It will be great to see how Yoga on Prescription develops and expands to benefit communities across Cumbria.”
Dr Katie GillettAdvocate of Cumbria Yoga Foundation
Cumbria Yoga Foundation delivers welcoming, inclusive yoga classes across the region, with a mission to create a healthier, kinder, more connected Cumbria. Since launching its Accessible Yoga programme in 2023, it has expanded to 8 regular locations plus seasonal Yoga in the Park sessions across a further 6 communities.
”“Copeland Integrated Care Community (ICC) are proud to be able to support this project, providing free accessible yoga to Copeland residents, a great way to boost physical health and wellbeing.”
Eve RichardsService Manager, Copeland ICC
Caroline continued: ‘We work directly within communities and with partners such as the Copeland ICC to offer the therapeutic benefits of yoga to those who may not otherwise be able to access it because of real or perceived health, cultural, systemic or economic barriers.”
Participants in the foundation’s programmes frequently report reduced pain, improved mood, better mobility, and just as importantly, more smiles.
”“I feel I have generally more energy. And I love the balance of the exercise and the meditation. After the sessions, the bit that hurts the most is my face because we smile so much. My smiling muscles are being stretched.”
Accessible yoga participant
”“I feel part of a community - yoga has totally surprised me in its affect on my wellbeing especially mental wellbeing. I can climb stairs and steps easier than I could at the beginning and I’m now using the breathing exercises regularly everyday.”
Accessible yoga participant
Funded by
More classes
Accessible Yoga – Cockermouth
Accessible Yoga – Grange
Accessible Yoga – Workington
Give the gift of yoga in your community
Just £10 gives a month of our community sessions to someone who otherwise wouldn’t be able to access the therapeutic benefits of yoga.
Cumbria Yoga Foundation is a registered charity committed to improving emotional, physical and social wellbeing.
We believe everyone should have the opportunity to experience the therapeutic benefits of yoga – regardless of age, background, ability, or income. We deliver a range of community classes, projects, and wellbeing initiatives in partnership with local organisations. Rooted in compassion, connection and care, Cumbria Yoga Foundation helps individuals and communities build resilience, restore balance, and reconnect with themselves and the world around them.
