Physical Activity for Wellbeing

Active Minds is a free wellbeing project in Scarborough, helping people build confidence, improve mood and feel more connected through movement, activity and gentle support.

Getting active can be a powerful way to support your mental health — but we know it isn’t always easy to get started. You might feel anxious about joining something new, unsure what you enjoy, low in confidence, or simply not know where to begin.

Active Minds is designed to make that first step feel easier.

This is not about fitness levels, pressure, competition or doing things “properly”. It is about finding activities that feel manageable, enjoyable and good for your wellbeing.

Whether you want to get out more, meet people, try something new or build a healthier routine, Active Minds can support you to take things at your own pace.

Who is Active Minds for?

Active Minds is for people aged 16+ living in Scarborough who would like to use movement, activity or time outdoors to support their mental health and wellbeing.

It may be helpful if you:

  • feel anxious, low, stressed or isolated
  • want to become more active but don’t feel confident starting alone
  • find traditional groups or sports settings difficult to access
  • would like to meet others in a relaxed, friendly space
  • want support to build routine, motivation or confidence
  • are looking for something positive to do in your week

You do not need to be sporty or physically fit to take part. Activities will be shaped around what people feel comfortable trying.

What kind of activities will there be?

Activities will be shaped by the people using the service, but may include:

  • walking groups
  • gentle outdoor activities
  • beginner-friendly sports
  • wellbeing activities
  • practical or creative sessions
  • activities in local community spaces
  • one-off taster sessions with local providers

You will not be expected to do anything that feels too much. We will work with you to find something that feels manageable.

Referrals

Active Minds is open to people aged 16+ living in Scarborough.

You can refer yourself, or be referred by a professional, support worker, GP, college, community organisation or another service.

Once we receive a referral, a member of the team will get in touch to talk through the project and find out what kind of support might feel most helpful.

How Active Minds works

Active Minds has three levels of support, so people can get involved in the way that feels right for them.

1:1 support

Some people may start with 1:1 support from an Active Minds worker.

This could include talking about what you would like to get from the project, exploring barriers to getting active, building confidence, or taking part in an activity together before joining a group.

1:1 support is flexible and person-centred. Sessions may involve walking, visiting a local activity space, trying something practical, or simply planning small steps towards getting out and doing more.

The aim is to help you feel more confident, connected and ready to take part in activities that support your wellbeing.

Regular activity group

Active Minds will also offer a regular activity group in Scarborough.

This group will be relaxed, friendly and shaped by the people who attend. Rather than having a fixed activity programme, members will help decide what the group does each week.

Activities might include things like walks, gentle sports, outdoor activities, creative movement, games, wellbeing activities or trying out local community spaces.

The group is about shared activity rather than sitting in a room and talking. There is no pressure to perform, be confident straight away, or talk about your mental health if you do not want to.

It is a space to try things, meet people and build confidence at your own pace.

Taster sessions

Active Minds will also run occasional taster sessions in Scarborough.

These sessions are a chance to try something new without committing to regular attendance. They may include one-off activities delivered with local providers, community partners or SWR Mind staff.

Taster sessions are a good way to explore what you enjoy, meet the team, and see whether Active Minds feels right for you.

Make a Referral

Referrals can be made by completing our enquiry form.

To complete our Enquiry Form please Click Here

If you would like to review the Enquiry Form in advance before answering any questions please Click Here