Welcome to Carers FIRST Lincolnshire

Lincolnshire carers walk around the world and back!

243 intrepid carers and the people they care for in Lincolnshire took part in Carers First’s inaugural Stepstember challenge during September to improve their health and get out in their community again. Many had been forced to shield since March and had rarely left their homes or had the chance to do much exercise. The project equipped them with pedometers/ activity trackers and they signed up to the challenge of trying to collectively walk the distance from Lands End to John O Groats. The project funded by Active Lincolnshire was a great success and participants smashed the target, walking the equivalent of around the world and back (45,482,018 steps)!

• 9 in 10 carers felt they had been more active during the Challenge

• Over half felt more confident about going out again in their community

• Families who had started going on walks said they planned to continue to do so

Michaela*, is a mum of 3 daughters, one who has Autism and ADHD and another with brain tumours. The family didn’t leave the house during lockdown and Michaela rated her fitness level a 1 on a scale of 1-5. Michaela saw the Challenge as an opportunity for all her family to get more active. They initially walked around their house before plucking up the courage to venture out to their nearby beach. All of Michaela’s family joined her in walking and Michaela says it has improved their physical and mental health.

“We actually did feel much better. It was nice to do things as a family. We are a bit happier and getting out more.”

She now rates her fitness as a 4 on a scale of 1-5 and plans to continue walking. 

A number of carers who took part have been referred to One You Lincolnshire for support in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Meanwhile we have encouraged others to sign up with the free Mayathon app allowing them to buddy up with friends and challenge each other to keep active. 

* name changed for confidentiality

For more information on how we can support you with your health and wellbeing, please contact our Carers Hub on 0300 303 1555.

Anglian Water Priority Service

Anglian Water is supporting Carers First, helping us to reach and support more carers in Lincolnshire and supporting carers through their Priority Service.