Wellbeing centre opens to empower those with diabetes in Cumbria

A fitness and wellbeing centre has opened in West Cumbria to support and empower attendees with diabetes.
The venue is based at the Together We Community Interest Company (CIC) gym in Workington and was officially opened by the mayor, Councillor Barbara Cannon.
Speaking to the News and Star newspaper, Ms Cannon said: “I think this is a magnificent facility. I knew someone who had diabetes and he went to a gym and had the diabetes reversed. Here we have these facilities that are accessible to everyone and can actually help combat diabetes.”
The not-for-profit organisation will provide a range of services including fitness and talking therapies in a bid to improve physical and mental health.
The centre is available for those with diabetes and people who are at risk of developing the condition. The centre is taking referrals from GPs in the area and will also be available for people with other conditions such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue and mental health conditions.
Janine Ward, one of the gym owners, said: “My sister Sam and I would like to thank all of the supporters, funders team and service users/members for their patience and on-going support in Together We and to the builders and contractors that constructed the building at cost price.
“The new studio will house several projects including the brand new diabetes project. We could not have opened it today without the help of all involved. We couldn’t have done it without the Cumbria County Council Allerdale Local Committee and our voluntary directors.”
Heather Nixo, county council community development officer said: “They have come a long way over the last 12 months and have a development programme that is going to help people in our communities to have healthier lifestyles.”
Session costs have been kept low thanks to subsidised funding by lottery funding and Sport England.