A dedicated group of Pluss customers with learning disabilities has achieved a remarkable milestone by completing their first-ever 5km run.
Since its launch in May 2024, the walking and running group, formed in collaboration with Miranda City Fitness, has grown into a thriving, supportive community focused on promoting fitness, health, and personal development.
Meeting weekly at Plymouth’s Central Park, the group participates in fun and inclusive walking sessions designed to encourage physical activity for all abilities.
What started as a simple fitness initiative has now become a life-changing experience for participants, building on physical endurance, self-confidence, and a stronger social connection.
Recently, the group reached an exciting peak when they completed their 5km run, marking a significant accomplishment for all involved.
An achievement picked up by the BBC regional news programme in the South West; Spotlight. Reporter Alex Osborne joined them for a jog and recorded a video which featured on the evening news.
The story also appeared on BBC Radio Devon, and the 💻 BBC Devon website.
Final mile
Miranda Ritchie, the group’s running instructor, couldn’t have been prouder; “Finishing their 5km run is an amazing achievement,” she says. “Their determination and spirit have been truly inspiring.”
The event highlighted not only the physical capabilities of the participants, but also the powerful bonds they’ve developed throughout their training.
While the final mile of the 5km run posed a challenge for many, the group’s morale helped them push through.
“We talked about everything, even Christmas, and we sang some songs together. It was beautiful,” Miranda adds.
Sally Carr, Learning Disability Training Team Leader at Pluss, is really pleased with the impact; “It’s exceeded my expectations of how good it’s been and we are really thrilled with their progress.”
Feeling good
The group’s success has met with enthusiastic feedback from the participants. Greg, who has Down’s Syndrome, gave the group a big thumbs up with a “10-star” rating.
Zoe, another participant, says being part of the group has improved her stamina and strength; “it just makes you feel good!”
With the successful completion of the 5km run, the group is now looking forward to taking on new challenges and continuing their fitness journey together.
Their journey reflects the power of community support and the potential for individuals with learning disabilities to achieve their goals.
Pluss is funded by Plymouth City Council. Individuals can also purchase 1:1 employment support from their personal budgets.
Click to visit the Pluss pages of this website
Browse the Pluss walking and running group photo gallery
