Durham Cricket Foundation is proud to partner with Durham County Council this November to support the launch of the ‘he thrives’ campaign, an initiative dedicated to improving men’s health and wellbeing across County Durham.
In support of the campaign, Durham Cricket Foundation will run new Walking Cricket taster sessions at Freeman’s Quay Leisure Centre in Durham throughout November, giving men and women of all ages and abilities the chance to get active, connect with others and enjoy the physical and social benefits of cricket in a relaxed and inclusive setting.
Lauren Kamperman, Head of Community Inclusion and Growth at Durham Cricket Foundation, said: “We’re very happy to be part of the ‘he thrives’ campaign. Our walking cricket programme has already helped so many people reconnect with sport, build friendships and stay active. By launching taster sessions at Freemans, we hope to attract new players to create another welcoming hub where people can come together, have fun and take positive steps for their wellbeing. Walking cricket is such an accessible and fun way to get active. We hope more people will come and give it a try.”
Durham Cricket Foundation’s Walking Cricket project began in 2021 and was designed to help older adults rediscover social connection, tackle isolation and loneliness, and reintroduce physical activity in a supportive environment. What started as one local hub has since grown into nine thriving Walking Cricket groups across the region.
The impact of the programme strongly reflects the goals of the ‘he thrives’ campaign, supporting people’s physical and mental wellbeing through activity and connection. In our latest impact survey, 89% of Walking Cricket players said they’re more active since joining, while 78% reported improved mental health. The social benefits are just as powerful, with 98% making new friends and 94% feeling a stronger sense of belonging. It shows how accessible sport can help people stay active and connected.
Walking Cricket is a slower-paced version of the traditional game, designed to make cricket more accessible while keeping all the fun, challenge and camaraderie. These sessions are a great way for people to stay active, try something new and enjoy the social side of sport in a friendly and welcoming environment.
This teaser run by the Foundation aims to spark lasting interest for a year-round hub in Durham City and signpost people to existing Walking Cricket groups across the county, helping them stay active and connected well beyond the campaign.
Walking Cricket Taster Sessions
Venue: Freeman’s Quay Leisure Centre, Durham
Dates: Monday 3rd, 10th, 17th and 24th November
Time: 4.00pm – 5.00pm
Express your interest by filling in this short form: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/SLW33N7 and just come along wearing comfortable clothing. All equipment will be provided.
The ‘he thrives’ campaign, led by Durham County Council, is part of Men’s Health Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of physical activity, mental health support and community connection.
Stephen Clough, Community Wellbeing Officer at Durham County Council said: “The ‘he thrives’ campaign is about encouraging men across County Durham to look after themselves, move more and support one another. It’s great to see organisations like Durham Cricket Foundation getting involved and creating opportunities for local men to be active and connected.”
Durham Cricket Foundation’s involvement builds on its ongoing commitment to community wellbeing through initiatives like Walking Cricket, which provides a fun and accessible way for people to stay healthy and connected.
For more information about the Walking Cricket sessions or the ‘he thrives’ campaign, visit:
https://thriveleisure.co.uk/index.php/activities/he-thrives/ .