How can simple, welcoming activities help people feel safer, stronger and more connected? For many people in Huddersfield, Kirklees and West Yorkshire, the right support can make a real difference.
New Direction Services CIC helps vulnerable people get more active. We support victims of domestic abuse, families, women, children and adults through fitness, wellbeing and community activities.
This new guide shares six important ways to connect with support. Take one step at a time. There is no pressure to do everything at once.
1. Staying Safe for Vulnerable People
Safety comes first.
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 999. If you cannot speak on a mobile phone, listen to the operator and press 55 when prompted. This is known as the Silent Solution.
You can also contact:
- National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247
- Pennine Domestic Abuse Partnership in Kirklees: 0800 052 7222
- New Direction Services CIC: 01484 218853
Domestic abuse can affect anyone. It can include physical abuse, threats, controlling behaviour, financial control, emotional abuse or isolation. You do not have to wait for a crisis before asking for help.
Our self-defence workshops can help people build confidence, awareness and practical skills. These sessions are supportive and suitable for different experience levels.
However, activity is never a replacement for specialist domestic abuse support, counselling, medical care or emergency services. It is one part of a wider support plan.
If you are concerned about your safety, think about when and how it is safest to make contact. You may wish to use a trusted phone, speak to a professional or ask someone you trust to support you.
For more information, read our guide: Looking for Domestic Violence Support in 2026? Here Are 10 Things You Should Know.
2. Booking Classes Through the App
Getting started should be simple. Our classes can be booked through the New Direction Services booking app.
There is one important rule:
All classes must be booked at least 24 hours in advance.
Please do not turn up without a confirmed booking. A booking helps us prepare the space, manage numbers and make sure the session is safe and welcoming for everyone.
Step by step
- Open the booking app.
- Choose the activity you would like to attend.
- Select a suitable date and time.
- Complete your booking.
- Check that you have received confirmation.
If you are unsure which activity is right for you, contact us on 01484 218853 before booking. We can help you understand the options.
You may be interested in our adult activities, women’s activities or wider community services.
Booking ahead is especially helpful if you are rebuilding confidence. You can plan your journey, prepare what you need and know what to expect before arriving.
3. Post-Domestic Abuse Help and Support
Leaving an abusive situation is a major step. The period after abuse can also bring new challenges.
You may be rebuilding your confidence, managing stress, supporting children or adjusting to a new routine. You may feel strong one day and uncertain the next. Both experiences are understandable.
Post-DV support can include:
- Specialist domestic violence support
- Help with safety planning
- Counselling or emotional support
- Housing and financial advice
- Support services for families
- Advice from your GP or other health professionals
- Safe social and community activities
Gentle activity can help you create structure. A class can also offer a chance to meet people and feel part of a community again. Our activities for vulnerable adults focus on encouragement, respect and personal progress.
You choose your pace. You might begin with a short session, a women-only activity or a class where the instructor can explain everything clearly.
Our women’s activities include options designed to build strength, confidence and connection. You can also explore our self-defence workshops for practical personal safety skills.
Remember, exercise does not treat trauma on its own. It should sit alongside specialist support, counselling or medical care where needed.
You can also read The Healing Power of Physical Activity in Trauma Recovery for more ideas.
4. Mental Health and Activity
Movement can support our mental health.
A walk, a dance session, kickboxing or gentle stretching may help reduce tension and improve your mood. Being active can also create routine and make it easier to connect with other people.
You do not need to be very fit. You do not need expensive equipment. Start with something manageable.
Try asking yourself:
- What type of movement do I enjoy?
- Would I feel more comfortable in a group?
- Do I need a beginner-friendly activity?
- Could a friend or family member come with me?
- What small step could I take this week?
Our mental health activities and community activities are designed to be welcoming. You can build confidence gradually and celebrate small achievements.
For more information, read Boost Your Mental Health with Physical Activity: The Science Behind the Connection and How to Get Active in Huddersfield and Why Your Mental Health Will Thank You.
Activity is helpful, but it is not a replacement for mental health treatment. If you are struggling, speak to your GP or a qualified professional. If you are in immediate danger, call 999.
5. Fitness for Over-40s
It is never too late to become more active.
Many people return to exercise after years away. Work, caring responsibilities, illness, injury or difficult life experiences can all affect our routines. Starting again may feel daunting, but progress does not need to be fast.
Fitness for over-40s can support:
- Strength and balance
- Mobility and coordination
- Energy and confidence
- Social connection
- Healthy routines
- General wellbeing
Begin at a level that feels right for you. You can take breaks. You can ask for an activity to be adapted. You can focus on learning rather than comparing yourself with others.
Our community sessions aim to welcome people from different backgrounds and fitness levels. If you have a health condition or an injury, speak to your GP or healthcare professional before starting a new exercise programme.
Community activities can be about more than fitness. They can help us meet people, learn crucial skills and feel part of Huddersfield life.
Read Can Local Community Activities Really Help You Heal? Find Out Here for more on the value of connection and shared activity.
6. Pay-Weekly Community Club Access
Not everyone can commit to a long course or a full membership. A pay-weekly option can make community club access easier to manage.
It may suit people who:
- Have changing work patterns
- Are managing family costs
- Are returning to exercise
- Want to try a session before making a longer commitment
- Need flexibility while rebuilding confidence
If you are interested in pay-weekly community club access, contact New Direction Services CIC on 01484 218853. We can explain the current options, availability and any booking requirements.
Please remember that classes still need to be booked at least 24 hours in advance through the booking app. Do not turn up without a confirmed booking.
Pay-weekly access can help make getting more active feel practical. One week at a time is still progress.
Children, Families and HAF Holiday Clubs
We also support children and families through active, creative programmes. Our HAF holiday clubs include dance, music, martial arts and fitness activities for young people.
These sessions can help children build confidence, stay active and make new friends during the school holidays. They also provide valuable support services for families looking for positive activities in Huddersfield and Kirklees.
Some funded places may have eligibility requirements. Check the holiday club information before booking.
Take Your Next Step
Support is available. Strength can grow. Confidence can return.
Whether you are looking for domestic violence support, activities for vulnerable adults, mental health activities, fitness for over-40s or HAF holiday clubs, you do not have to take the next step alone.
Visit our services page, check the booking app and remember to book at least 24 hours in advance.
If you have questions, call 01484 218853. We welcome people from Huddersfield, Kirklees and across West Yorkshire.