New Year, Better You: Six programmes to make the resolutions stick in 2026

With 2026 underway, the New Year is often a time where people develop new ambitions and look for a fresh start.

While making a resolution is one thing, knowing where to start and the help you can access to achieve it is another.

With that in mind, Foundation of Light would like to share some of the ways you can improve your health with us.

Sunderland AFC’s official charity has programmes aimed at improving all kinds of wellbeing, including physical, mental, and social. Here’s some of the sessions that are available to you:

Kick The Habit

January is the most popular time for people to attempt to quit smoking, but did you know that you can get free help, resources, and advice to make your quit attempt a successful one.

Through our partnerships with Sunderland Specialist Stop Smoking Service and Stop Smoking South Tyneside, we can one-to-one support, Nicotine Replacement Therapy, or a free vape as part of the Swap to Stop initiative.

Sunderland’s Stop Smoking Service has clinics across the city while South Tyneside residents can book an appointment with us at Boldon Community Association by contacting Mollie Russell at: mollie.russell@foundationoflight.co.uk or call 0191 563 4749

More Info: Click Here

Get Out, Get Active

These sports and fitness sessions allow disabled and non-disabled people to enjoy being active together.

There is something for everyone aged 16+ with sessions running across varied venues from Monday to Friday.

Activities include Walking Football, Pickleball, and our Ha’way and Weigh fitness classes.

Find out More: Click Here

Strength and Balance

Our Strength and Balance programme Is aimed towards Over 55s to help people improve balance, strength, stamina, and flexibility.

The free 14-week course offers one hour of physical activity hosted by qualified staff in a safe environment.

We have an upcoming course at Fulwell Community Library starting on Thursday 29 January.

To register your interest in signing up, contact: jade.gilbertson@foundationoflight.co.uk

Game Changer

Game Changer is aimed at supporting both the physical and mental wellbeing of military veterans.

Open to any armed forces experienced male aged 18 and over, Game Changer sessions are available at the Beacon of Light (Tuesdays, 6:30-8pm) and Seaham Youth Centre (Wednesdays, 5-6:30pm).

The free sessions include 30 minutes of tailored information and guidance, followed by an hour of low impact physical activity such as walks, guided exercises, and walking football.

Find out More: Click Here

Ha’way and Weigh

The Foundation of Light’s healthy lifestyle programme is the perfect way to kickstart those New Year’s resolutions.

Focusing on long-term improvement in physical and mental wellbeing, weight loss, and diet, the sessions include a 45-minute guided work out, 15-minute check-in and weigh-in, and an optional 30 minutes of discussion with our qualified instructors.

The free sessions take place in South Tyneside at:

Cleadon Park Library – Wednesdays, 6-7pm

To book your place or for further information, contact: mollie.russell@foundationoflight.co.uk or call 0191 563 4749

Game of II Halves

Our dedicated men’s mental health and suicide prevention programme invites those aged 16+ to become Game of II Halves Ambassadors.

In becoming an ambassador, you will be invited to a range of workshops and training activities, which aim to equip you with the skills, confidence, and knowledge to better support the mental wellbeing of yourself and those around you.

If you are interested in becoming a Game of II Halves Ambassador, get in touch with Steve: steve.brindley@foundationoflight.co.uk

More Info: Click Here