Falls Prevention Initiative – Bradford District and Craven
Falls can have a significant impact on a person’s confidence, independence and ability to stay active and connected to their community. For some people, a fall or a period of reduced mobility can lead to a loss of confidence, less physical activity and increased isolation. However, many falls can be prevented, and the right support at the right time can help people remain active, independent and well.
The Falls Prevention Initiative is a new community-based programme across Bradford District and Craven, bringing together local voluntary and community organisations, Primary Care and specialist health services. It aims to identify people who may be at risk of falling earlier, increase awareness of falls prevention and make it easier for people to access practical support within their own communities.
A network of local Falls Champions will work with community organisations and health partners to build knowledge about falls prevention, provide awareness and training, strengthen referral and signposting routes, and improve connections to local activities that can help people maintain their strength, balance, mobility and independence.
Alongside this, the Walk From Home scheme will provide short-term support from trained volunteers for people who need some extra encouragement to regain their confidence following a fall, reduced mobility or clinical intervention. This might involve supporting someone to begin getting out of their home again, take a short walk, become more active or gradually reconnect with their local community.
Importantly, the support does not end when someone’s confidence improves. The programme will help people take the next step into local groups, activities and community opportunities, enabling them to maintain their progress, build social connections and continue being active and independent.
Together, the Falls Champions and Walk From Home scheme aim to create a more joined-up approach to falls prevention – connecting health and care services with the support already available within our communities and helping people to stay confident, active, connected and independent for longer.