An innovative new programme, delivered throughout the colder months late last year, provided vital support to people across Lanarkshire who were at greater risk of falling.
NHS Lanarkshire’s Health Improvement Team worked alongside Hamilton Judo Club for Inclusion and South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture to run the five-week programme combining gentle, adapted Judo-based movement sessions with health and wellbeing support.
Falls are one of the leading causes of unplanned hospital admissions for older adults in Lanarkshire, and this non-traditional approach could safely improve people’s confidence, balance and ability to recover from a fall.
Sessions included 45 minutes of improving balance, strength and safe falling techniques followed by a 30 minute ‘tea and chat’ with input from services including NHS Falls Hub, Podiatry, Pharmacy and more. Feedback from those who came along was extremely encouraging of the programme and the team are working towards running more sessions in the future.
Chris Simpson, Health Improvement Senior, NHS Lanarkshire, said: “As winter was approaching, our team wanted to do everything we could to help protect adults at risk of falls.
“I had met members of the Hamilton Judo Club where we spoke about the potential of this programme. By working together and building on the strengths and connections already in the community, their enthusiasm helped turn our conversations into a full programme.
“This project has shown that with the right partnerships, innovative approaches can be delivered safely and effectively in community settings. The confidence gained by participants over just five weeks was striking.”
Participant, Michael Blessing from Newmains, added: “I would definitely recommend the programme. It was a welcoming environment where people learned from each other. Learning how to get up safely from the floor was so important, if I had known these skills earlier, they would have helped me after previous falls.
“The programme has given both me and my wife, Annette, much more confidence moving forward. I now know how to get up safely and she knows how best to support me.”
John D’Ambrosio, Head of Coaching and Development, Hamilton Judo Club for Inclusion, added: “The programme wasn’t about martial arts – it was about practical movement, confidence and empowerment. Seeing people realise they can move more safely and recover from a fall has been incredibly rewarding.”
As colder weather and icy conditions increase the risk of slips, trips, and falls, NHS Lanarkshire is reminding people of simple but effective steps they can take to stay safe both at home and outdoors.
Ensuring floors and stairs are kept clear, securing rugs with non-slip backing, and arranging furniture to allow clear walking routes can significantly reduce the risk of trips and falls at home. Good lighting is also essential, especially in hallways, on stairs, and when moving around at night. Poor eyesight can make it harder to spot hazards, so regular eye tests and keeping glasses prescriptions up to date can also help people stay safe indoors.
When outdoors, one of the key recommendations is to wear suitable footwear. Shoes or boots with good grip, non-slip soles, and ankle support are ideal for navigating slippery surfaces. Walking carefully and using the “Penguin Walk” technique — keeping your centre of gravity over your feet, taking shorter steps, and going slowly — can also help maintain balance on icy ground.
Other practical advice includes:
- Keeping driveways, paths, and steps clear of snow and ice by using grit or sand
- Ensuring walking aids, such as sticks or frames, are fitted with non-slip rubber ferrules
- Dressing warmly in layers to protect against cold muscles, which are more prone to injury, and wearing reflective clothing to improve visibility
- Planning ahead to avoid rushing outdoors in icy conditions, and seeking help from family, friends, or neighbours when needed
For older adults and vulnerable individuals, carrying out a simple home safety check to minimise trip hazards such as loose rugs, trailing cables, or clutter can be vital. A review of medications by a healthcare professional may also be beneficial, as some medications can affect balance.
If a fall does occur, it is important to seek help promptly if there is pain or difficulty moving. For minor falls without injury, use furniture or walking aids to get back to your feet and rest carefully.
NHS Lanarkshire’s Falls Team is available to provide advice on fall prevention and rehabilitation. For more information, contact the Falls Register Hub on 01698 753734 or visit www.nhsinform.scot/healthy-living/preventing-falls.
