Oh Oh Oh it’s MAGIC
What is MAGIC?
MAGIC stands for Movement and Games in Chairs and is designed for people with long-term health conditions and mobility challenges. It is ideal for those living independently, providing opportunities to socialise and have fun. MAGIC has flourished with Community Plus, with over 2,600 participants each quarter. Sessions are held in community centres, care homes, hospital wards, and fire stations across Kirklees, thanks to the dedication of volunteers and professionals.
Meet Noreen
Noreen is one of the many MAGIC volunteers in Kirklees. She began supporting the MAGIC session after initially participating in it. Noreen moved to Cleckheaton four years ago to be closer to family due to health struggles. Initially, she knew no one in the area except her son. The national lockdown due to COVID further isolated her. As restrictions lifted, she saw a Facebook post about a MAGIC class at Cleckheaton Fire Station. Despite her low confidence, she attended the session alone and found it welcoming, making new friends instantly.
You’re Never Too Old
Noreen loved her first class and felt at ease with the welcoming group. After a few months, she began assisting volunteers, helping with hot drinks and session delivery. Despite initially thinking she was “too old to learn,” she attended MAGIC training in May 2023 at John Smith’s Stadium. The training boosted her confidence, enabling her to lead part of the session. The MAGIC group is very important to Noreen, and she enjoys helping and listening to attendees.
Interested in Starting a MAGIC Class?
MAGIC training is a free, interactive three-hour course designed to equip you with the skills and confidence to lead enjoyable, safe, and inclusive Movement and Games in Chairs sessions in a community setting.
Learning Outcomes:
- Understanding what is involved in leading Movement and Games in Chairs and creating engaging, inclusive sessions.
- Knowledge of the roles and responsibilities of a MAGIC Leader.
- Understanding how to manage session pace, including warm-ups, warm-downs, and game ideas.
- Awareness of risk assessment and how to recognise and manage potential hazards.
Upcoming MAGIC Leader Sessions in 2025:
- 7th May: Batley Library, 9am – 12.30pm
- 9th June: Hudawi Centre, Huddersfield, 10am – 1pm
- 10th September: Batley Library, 9am – 12.30pm
- 15th September: Hudawi Centre, Huddersfield, 1 – 4pm
To book a free place on a MAGIC Leader Training session, fill in the online booking form or contact Community Plus at Community.Plus@kirklees.gov.uk or 01484 225224.
The Benefits of MAGIC
MAGIC is a great form of exercise, and evidence shows that regular exercise can help:
- Improve circulation
- Lower blood pressure
- Reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke
- Reduce the risk of cancer
- Help manage weight and reduce the risk of Type II diabetes
- Boost your immune system
- Improve your mood
- Get a better night’s sleep
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Increase your energy
- Help you cope during difficult times
- Improve your confidence and self-esteem
- Reduce your risk of depression
- Reduce loneliness and help you meet new friends