IMPACT
DOING OUR BIT TO MAKE THINGS
A LITTLE LESS SH*T.
We started The Alternative because we felt something new was needed, but also as a response to the current climate.
With the way things are right now (gestures broadly at everything) it is becoming harder for the majority of people, whoever they are, to prioritise their health, enjoy their life and sometimes - just get through each day.
Let alone if you’re part of a marginalised group.
In response we create safe spaces, deliver affirmative services and challenge outdated ideas and harmful narratives. We also commit to being as socially conscious as we can.
We’re not perfect at it, nobody is and we can’t fix the systemic issues.
But we try to do our bit where possible, work in line with our values and take our mission further than the studio.
Here’s how we do it.
VOLUNTEERING
Every month we dedicate at least 2 days to volunteering our time and resources.
This includes free classes and workshops, going the extra mile for existing clients, and running our Supportive Wellbeing Scheme.
Our Co-Founder, Paige, also holds a voluntary position on the leadership team for Proud Changemakers - the charity sector and civil society’s LGBTQ+ organisation. Proud Changemakers host a podcast to amplify diverse LGBTQ+ voices and campaign on issues for equality.
FREE WOMEN’S HEALTH DROP-INS
Women’s health is becoming an increasingly controversial topic.
It shouldn’t be.
We know from experience how difficult it can be to get support and guidance on women’s health issues, so we wanted to do something about it.
Every Saturday 12.30-1.30pm, we run a women’s health drop-in.
It’s completely free, and a space to ask questions, get information and be signposted where needed.
CONCIOUS PURCHASING
From graphic design to DIY contractors - the people we worked with to build The Alternative came from small family-run businesses, identify as LGBTQ+ and/or are people from the global majority.
When it comes to things like marketing materials, uniform and the artwork we put up in our space, we prioritise buying from socially and environmentally conscious small businesses.
We love working with organisations and individuals who are doing their bit and always put our values at the heart of the decisions we make to pay for products, and services.
SUPPORTIVE WELLBEING SCHEME
4 SESSIONS OF 121 SUPPORT
There are a lot of barriers to health and fitness and we know cost can be a major one.
Paige and Rae reserve one client place each month to deliver 121 services for individuals who would really benefit from Personal Training, but could otherwise not afford it.
Rae’s spaces are reserved for Trans Men and Non-Binary people, and Paige’s are reserved for women.
We meet these clients for 1 x 1 hour session per week and create a sustainable, achievable programme - tailored to their specific needs and circumstances.
There is often a waitlist for this service, and priority is given to those on no/low income including zero hours contracts, single parents and people from the global majority.
