Bedford Partnership community news for October

Bedford joins Better club games for the first time!

For the first time since GLL took over the Bedford partnership, a group of proud senior Bedfordians took the journey to London and competed in the Better Club Games.The National Finals of the Better Club Games - also known as ‘The Older Person’s Olympics’ - took place at Copper Box Arena in London's Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.

The Bedford cohort were recruited through the weekly leisure centre programmes hosted at 2 local centres and proudly represent our town across a wide range of sports.

All the teams were roared on by The Better Club Games' 'Older People's Ambassador', Cheryl Baker, formerly of 80s pop combo 'Bucks Fizz', who opened the event, tried her hand at the sports and presided over the medal ceremony.

Kayden’s journey showcased nationally

A Bedfordshire youngster who suffered a life-changing stroke during surgery to remove a brain tumour is rebuilding his strength, confidence and independence with the support of Robinson Pools and Fitness. The great work was broadcasted on ITV earlier in the month!

In April 2026, Kayden began neuro-rehabilitation with a team of therapists at The Children's Trust, the UK's leading charity for children with acquired brain injury. As part of his rehabilitation, his physiotherapist and occupational therapist provided his parents, Lizzie and Jayden, with a home exercise programme to support his recovery between therapy sessions.                                                                                                                                                                            Looking for somewhere with the space and equipment to help Kayden complete the programme, they enrolled him in a junior gym membership at Robinson Pools and Fitness.

Working alongside his dad, Kayden now carries out his physiotherapy and occupational therapy exercises Robinson Pools and Fitness, where staff member Nick Taylor supports them by helping them use the equipment safely. The welcoming environment has become an important part of Kayden's recovery, allowing him to continue building strength, balance and confidence.

Robinsons Pool gets scary!

Robinsons Pool and Fitness brought a fantastic Halloween atmosphere to the centre, delivering a spooktacular programme of customer engagement that brought staff and customers together.

Staff and customers embraced the Halloween spirit by dressing up in a brilliant range of costumes, transforming the centre into a fun and welcoming environment for everyone visiting. The enthusiasm and participation from the team helped create a memorable experience.

Stoma Bag support continues

A brand-new stoma bag support group in Bedford is growing thanks to the generosity of the Bedford partnership, which has provided free room space to help bring people together. This welcoming group offers a valuable opportunity for individuals living with a stoma to connect, share experiences, exchange advice and find reassurance among others who understand their challenges.

Better attends senior networking event

This month Better was delighted to attend the Living Well event at Bedford Corn Exchange. This was a great opportunity to showcase the wide range of health, fitness and wellbeing opportunities for the local senior community across Bedford Borough. The event provided a fantastic opportunity to connect with local residents, community organisations and partner services, raising awareness of Better’s facilities, activities and inclusive programmes.