The new contract will refresh and update instructors delivering the Steady and Strong Falls Prevention programme, supporting over a thousand older adults across the county.
iCareiMove (iCiM) has been appointed by Hampshire County Council to design, deliver, and evaluate refresher training for instructors delivering the county’s flagship “Steady and Strong” and “Steady and Strong Dance” falls prevention programmes.
Under the contract, iCareiMove will work directly with over 40 instructors across Hampshire to support them to continue to deliver safe, consistent, and evidence-based strength and balance classes to older residents.
The programme is part of Hampshire County Council’s Public Health Strategy and directly supports older people to maintain their independence and reduce their risk of falls.
Hampshire has one of England’s most rapidly ageing populations, with 22.6% of residents aged 65 or over, above the national average of 18.9%. Nearly 90,000 people aged 65 and over experience falls in the county every year, many resulting in hospital admissions, loss of independence, and serious long-term health consequences. Evidence shows that structured strength and balance exercise programmes are among the most effective tools available to reduce this risk.
“This work is about continuing to evolve excellent practice. By working alongside Hampshire County Council and its network of experienced independent instructors, we can refresh thinking, reinforce evidence‑based delivery, and ensure more older adults continue to benefit from safe, effective movement that supports independence for longer.”
Helen Tite, Founder, iCareiMove
The training will support 44 Steady and Strong instructors, with additional places available to NHS colleagues. Sessions will be held at accessible venues across Hampshire and will combine practical and theory-based learning, including updates on evidence, health and safety, and best practice aligned with the Otago Exercise Programme and Falls Management Exercise standards.
Crucially, the programme has been designed with collaboration at its heart. A co-design phase will bring existing instructors into the process from the outset – drawing on their experience and incorporating what works well for their clients, ensuring the training reflects real-world delivery and that instructors feel genuinely invested in the journey ahead.
iCareiMove will provide regular progress updates, attendance records, participant feedback, and a final evaluation report to the Commissioner throughout the contract period, ensuring the programme delivers measurable, lasting impact for Hampshire’s older residents.
For more information, referrals, or media enquiries, please contact iCareiMove via info@icareimove.com or call 0800 054 1118.
Proudly part of the Future Fit Group, iCareiMove, provides specialist health and wellbeing services designed to enhance quality of life for midlife and beyond. With over 20 years of experience, including trusted partnerships with the NHS, Local Authorities and private sector clients, we improve individuals through education, movement, and lifestyle support. We deliver innovative programmes and training that help people thrive through life stages such as menopause, ageing, and beyond. Our expert-led bespoke programmes are dedicated to empowering people with the skills and knowledge they need.