Service users at the heart of gym transformation at Warren Court

10 Jul 25

A suggestion from a service user has led to a fantastic upgrade for the gym at Warren Court, a medium secure inpatient unit.

Picture of an HPFT staff member pulling two weights towards him. He is wearing all black and leaning towards the camera.
HPFT Activity Manager Lorenzo demonstrating some of the new equipment.

During one of the unit’s regular coffee mornings, one of the service users suggested getting some battle ropes and a new cross trainer for their gym.

Supported by Eddie Fuller, Specialist OT, service users helped develop an investment proposal by researching the kind of equipment they would like. They then presented their proposal to a Trust panel, giving a virtual tour of the old gym, explaining how hard it was to exercise without the right kit and sharing how the new equipment would support their health and wellbeing.

The panel could clearly see how important the gym was to the service users and how much they needed a safe space to stay active and the panel unanimously agreed the upgrade.

The gym is now completely transformed. It has commercial-standard equipment, including two treadmills, which means that staff can walk alongside service users, helping to keep them engaged and motivated while they exercise.

Eddie Fuller, Specialist OT said:

“The introduction of this new equipment will help our service users build confidence and develop safe techniques within a structured and supportive environment. By becoming familiar with this modern equipment, individuals will feel more comfortable and independent when attending community gyms during their community reintegration.”

Since the re-fit, the gym has been in use every day, and it’s already making a huge difference. Service users are enjoying the chance to work out safely and given lots of positive feedback.

"It's given me more motivation to attend sessions."

"I can do more cardio to burn more calories with the new equipment."

"Using the new equipment helps me to relax."

Related Pages

Service users at the heart of gym transformation at Warren Court