Sports park strolls help Stephen defy spine injury

The new pitch at The Rutland Sports Park in Ilkeston (Credit: EBC)

An Erewash spine injury sufferer who feared ending up in a wheelchair has told how the launch of a walking initiative in the borough has helped to transform his life.

The formerly fit and active resident, called Stephen, was left battling excruciating pain as his world came crashing down.

Amid fruitless attempts to rebuild his mobility he was given a frightening diagnosis – that the agony from the severe injury to his lower spine could see him confined to a wheelchair.

The prospect impacted his mental health and left him feeling lonely – until he got a local referral to what is known as the Social Prescribing Team. Its NHS-backed mentors link patients to community help services, activities and groups – with a focus on the whole person rather than just their injury, illness or condition.

Stephen was encouraged to start taking part in a gentle walk that is held weekly at Ilkeston’s Rutland Sports Park. It was launched in August – and was the brainchild of a “social prescriber” who is in the team based at the Erewash Voluntary Action hub in Long Eaton.

The stroll follows a flat 400-metre track and is designed to be accessible to those who struggle to get around. People of all abilities walk at their own pace. Stephen was sceptical it would help but managed to complete one painful lap. The small win motivated him to return each week. He steadily increased his distance while gaining strength, confidence and a sense of community.

The sessions have led to him feeling hopeful again. He is rebuilding his social life and exploring new work opportunities. Stephen was full of praise for the team that helped him turn his life around. He said in a message to those facing similar struggles to his own: “Give Social Prescribing a chance. It gives you the tools and the support to reclaim your life.”

He also urged others to copy him by joining the track walks, which are held every Friday at 10am. People can just turn up – and there is no need to book.

The walks are billed as being calm and peaceful with no other pedestrians or cyclists barging past. Within six weeks of them being launched participants had managed to clock up a total of 148 laps – equivalent to 37 miles, or the distance from Ilkeston to Leicester.

Stephen said of taking part: “It supports emotional, social and physical wellbeing. It’s an environment with no pressure where you’re surrounded by others also working to improve their health.”

Cllr Josy Hare, who is Erewash’s Lead Member for Health and Wellbeing, said: “Social Prescribing can work wonders – and is backed up by the council’s own mission to help residents with mobility issues. It is called All Move in Erewash and is run by our Community Health and Wellbeing Development team.”

More details can be found on the authority’s website here: All Move in Erewash | Erewash Borough Council.