Golden Activators wanted in the Vale who have the desire to help others do more physical activity

You’ve been there, done that and got the t shirt 10 times over. Being active in older age is something that comes naturally to you and you wouldn’t have it any other way. But have you ever considered that you could help someone live a healthier lifestyle and improve life in your community along the way?

Everyone wants to be supported by ‘someone like me’, a person who shares many characteristics with you and someone you can relate to. The Healthy Living Team are passionate about improving the lives of older people across the Vale of Glamorgan and we are seeking others who can help us on our mission of helping people live healthier for longer.

We are searching for some ‘Golden Activators’ who have the desire to help others do more physical activity, lead activity that they are passionate about and help bring together residents to map out their ideal physical activity and sport opportunities locally.

Who we are looking for

-          People who are aged 60+ and live in the Vale of Glamorgan

-          People who are who active in their day to day life

We are also interested in hearing from people who…

-          Are managing a long-term health condition by being active

-          Have become active in later life who may have not been ‘sporty’ growing up

-          Would like to become a coach/instructor/leader of a sport or activity they are passionate about but aren’t quite sure where to start

Where can I get involved?

We are looking for Golden Activators from across the Vale of Glamorgan. We have vacancies for 10 Golden Activators covering the following Principal Areas:

-          3 x Western Vale – representation of Cowbridge, Llandow/Ewenny, Llantwit Major, Peterston-Super-Ely and St. Brides Major

-          4 x Central Vale – representation of Barry, Rhoose, St. Athan and Wenvoe

-          3 x Eastern Vale – representation of Dinas Powys, Llandough, Penarth and Sully

What will I do as a Golden Activator?

The role will be suited to the needs of the communities in your Principle Areas and your interests as an Activator. The local function will be decided between activators and guided by the Healthy Living Team. Example roles could include:

-          Be the champion of physical activity and sport in your local area

-          Be a key decision maker on projects invested in via the Golden Fund/Golden Pass programmes

-          Be the key promoters of health promotion campaigns locally

-          Consult with residents in your area and provide feedback on what needs to change to improve health locally

-          Deliver sport or activities you are passionate about individually or as a group  

-          Attend meetings with the other Golden Activators and the Healthy Living Team to discuss the above and other local issues that matter to you

-          Provide help, advice and guidance to inactive people considering becoming active

-          Transport people to opportunities in the community taking away any travel barriers they may face with access 

-          Attend sessions with residents to support as a buddy

How much time will I need to provide?

Your involvement as a Golden Activator is what you make it, therefore, there is no minimum number of hours you need to complete. However, you would not be expected to do no more than four hours per month supporting the scheme. Anything over and above would be greatly appreciated but not mandatory.

Are there any rewards available if I become an Activator?

To thank you for your time provided as part of the scheme, you will have access to –

-          A Golden Activator t shirt/jacket when you join the scheme

-          If you are looking to lead an activity, we will fund a basic ‘level 1’ coaching/leadership qualification if you haven’t got one and complete a set amount of hours

-          Timebank – for every hour of volunteering you provide, you earn one Time Credit. You can spend Time Credits on a variety of rewards

-          Enable you to have an active involvement with investment decisions that affect you in your local community 

How do I get involved?

To express your interest in becoming a Golden Activator, please complete this application form. A member of the Healthy Living Team will be back in touch to discuss your involvement, go through the role in more detail and answer any questions you might have. If you are reading this and know of someone you think would like to take up this opportunity, please forward the information to them. A hard copy of the application form is also available.

Deadline for applications - Tuesday 31st August 2021

I have some questions, who can I contact?

Please get in touch with Elliot Pottinger, Healthy Living Officer (Adults) with any questions you have:

Email – epottinger@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk

Mobile - 07596 889067