Oldham Active is proud to mark 20 years of delivering the REACH exercise referral programme in Oldham, helping thousands of residents recover from serious health conditions and improve their long-term health and wellbeing.

Delivered in partnership with NHS Greater Manchester Integrated Care, REACH has supported 3,906 people since launching. The programme is designed for individuals recovering from conditions such as heart disease, respiratory illness, long Covid and peripheral vascular disease, offering safe, structured exercise in a supportive community environment.

The REACH programme provides specialist group exercise classes in Oldham, helping participants rebuild strength, confidence and independence after illness or surgery.

Our sessions are delivered across Saddleworth, Royton, Chadderton and Oldham leisure centres, making it easier for residents to access community-based rehabilitation close to home.

Over the past year:

REACH is widely recognised as a vital step-down from hospital care into community fitness, with many referrals coming directly from physiotherapists and healthcare professionals.

At Oldham Active, we understand that starting exercise after illness can be daunting. That’s why REACH focuses on safe, supervised exercise for people with medical conditions, delivered by experienced Health and Wellbeing professionals.

Jason Bailey, Health and Wellbeing Officer at Oldham Active, said that for many people in Oldham, moving from hospital recovery to a gym environment can feel overwhelming. He explained that the team’s role is to provide reassurance, guidance and a personalised approach. For Jason, REACH is about more than exercise — it’s about creating a friendly, welcoming space where people feel supported and motivated to improve their health.

Many participants go on to make exercise a long-term part of their lifestyle, highlighting the lasting impact of the programme.

Lawrence, 72, joined REACH following heart surgery. He explained that after completing hospital rehabilitation, REACH helped him continue his recovery. After finishing the 12-week programme, he became an Oldham Active member and, 14 years later, still exercises regularly. He now enjoys encouraging new participants and reassuring them that sticking with the programme can make a real difference.

Stuart Lockwood, Chief Executive of Oldham Active, said the REACH programme is a leading example of how community fitness and NHS services in Oldham can work together to improve lives. He added that reaching 20 years is a significant milestone and reflects both the dedication of the team and the determination of participants. The programme continues to demonstrate that with the right support, recovery is possible and people can regain their quality of life.

If you’ve been referred by a healthcare professional or want to learn more about our exercise referral programme in Oldham, Oldham Active is here to help.