A programme that encourages activity among older people is in the running for a £4,000 supermarket grant.

The ‘Active Community Mondays’ scheme at Harrow Leisure Centre, which was launched just over a year ago, gives older people the chance to meet others in a fun, safe environment and seeks to tackle feelings of isolation and loneliness.

Following its initial success, it has put forward an application for funding from the Tesco Bags of Help initiative in the hope of growing even more.

The scheme offers community projects financial support, and ‘Active Community Mondays’ has been shortlisted alongside two other projects with £4,000 up for grabs.

“We’re absolutely delighted to be shortlisted for the Tesco Bags of Help scheme”, said Navin Seneviratne, Everyone Active community development manager.

“All the participants have worked hard and have shown such great transformations.

“The sessions are thoroughly enjoyed by everyone, and the money would enable us to achieve our goal of reducing inactivity and loneliness amongst older people in Harrow, by starting a second session and helping us reach out to more people.”

The group has grown to around 20 dedicated members who have all seen significant physical progress and have also embraced the social aspect of the scheme.

A typical session begins with an introductory hour in which participants socialise whilst enjoying the free tea, coffee and biscuits provided.

A group mobility class is then lead by a GP referral manager, consisting of gentle mobility exercises aimed at improving strength, flexibility and balance, before either a Qi Qong or Tai Chi session.

After lunch, there is a talk lead by an organisation such as Harrow Police discussing ways to stay safe at home, or a nutritionist discussing the importance of good nutrition.

Sessions run every Monday from 10am-2pm and cost £4 per person. For more information, email harrowinfo@everyoneactive.com or call 020 8901 5980.

And to vote for the ‘Active Community Mondays’ scheme, visit any Tesco store within Harrow, collect a token when making your transaction, and put them in the ‘Active Community Mondays’ pot.

One token is provided per transaction, and there is no voting limit. Voting closes on February 28.