Leisure centres in Enfield have been supporting nearly 100 women affected by domestic violence.

Fusion Lifestyle, which operates leisure centres on behalf of Enfield Council, offered the women free exercise sessions to help empower them and improve their mental wellbeing.

Some of the victims are living with depression, low self-esteem, anxiety, PTSD and grief.

The Women in Time programme offered pilates, combat fitness, self-defence, and a combination of dance-based activity to nearly 100 women.

The women, who regularly attended the course, were offered a further three months free membership to a Fusion-run centre, allowing them to continue to improve their mental and physical wellbeing.

Referrals for the programme came from Solace Women’s Aid, health trainers or, in some instances were self-referrals. The programme was designed to ensure classes were easy to access and so attendees were guaranteed a safe space, motivational support and time to give themselves time for some self-care.

The scheme set out to help them achieve the confidence to continue to be physically active, make new friends and feel self-empowered.

Anthony Cawley, director of operations at Fusion, said: “We know that physical exercise can play an incredibly important role in helping those suffering from the aftermath of domestic violence and we’re really pleased we have been able help vulnerable women here in Enfield. Schemes like this are incredibly important and can be a lifeline to those in need.”

The Women in Time project has been awarded a finalist certificate in the Community Impact Award Category – Physical Activity at the Community Leisure UK Awards, 2020.