Celebrating 10 Years of Chapelthorpe Health Champions: From Walking Groups to Digital Inclusion

For the past decade, every Wednesday morning, something uplifting has been happening outside Chapelthorpe Medical Centre.

Just before 10am, people gather in the car park, ready to walk, talk, and share an hour of fresh air and good company. Led by the Chapelthorpe Health Champions, the group offers both gentle 45-minute walks and longer one-hour routes, ensuring there’s a pace for everyone. Afterward, the morning continues with tea, biscuits, and plenty of conversations.

But it’s never just been about getting steps. It’s about friendship, confidence, and community.

One member shared:

“I couldn’t walk across a street before I came here… with brilliant support I now dare walk anywhere.”

Another reflected:

“If it wasn’t for this group, I don’t know where I’d be; probably in a wheelchair.”

Over the years, the group has explored hidden corners of their neighbourhood, enjoyed trips to the Yorkshire Sculpture Park, and created a space where no one walks alone, literally or figuratively.

Chapelthorpe’s Health Champions haven’t stopped at walking and talking. They’ve also been at the forefront of driving health equity in the digital age.

Working with their GP practice, they launched a patient-led IT Training Group, giving people the chance to build confidence with technology in a friendly, supportive environment.

Every other Friday morning, the group runs a six-session programme covering everyday digital essentials, from email and online banking to Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and online safety. Topics are shaped by the people who attend, and one-to-one support is offered on alternate weeks for those who need extra help.

One participant said:

“The help I’ve received has made a terrific difference to the way I use my iPad and iPhone. Everyone was so easy to talk to and made me feel at ease. I’ve definitely learned a lot, especially how to get on and use the internet. Please pass on my thanks and best wishes to all.”

This work also supports people to make better use of the NHS App, giving them easier access to health services and helping them manage their health online.

Together, Chapelthorpe’s Health Champions have shown what happens when you bring together a GP practice, a group of compassionate local citizens, and a shared belief in the power of community.

At Altogether Better, we call this Collaborative Practice and at Chapelthorpe, the results have been life changing.

A huge congratulations to the Health Champions at Chapelthorpe on 10 years of making Wednesday mornings brighter and for continuing to innovate, connect, and make a lasting difference.