The Well-Being Project

 

The Well-Being Project is a three year project based at the Leatherhead Clubhouse funded by the Big Lottery Fund which started in January 2008.

It is part of the national chances4change Programme which aims to improve the physical and psychological health and well being of vulnerable groups within the population.

 

Our interest in taking part in this arose from our awareness that people who use Mental Health Services have poorer physical health and life expectancy than the general population. We are also committed to support members in their recovery and to improve their quality of life. 

 

If you would like to find out more about the chances 4change Programme and about our part in it please contact:
www.southeastcoast.nhs.uk/whatwedo/chances4change.asp

Alternatively, please contact Alison Prescott on 01372-375400.

 

We started our project by carrying out an in-depth consultation with our members about what support they needed to make their lifestyle healthier and to improve their general sense of well-being.

 

We used this information to design our project to include:

• Running taster sessions and groups, including workshops and short courses

• Producing a quarterly magazine

• Providing information and resources

• Supporting members to access resources in the community

• Working with outside partners and organisations

• Providing specialist advice on smoking cessation, healthy eating, weight maintenance from nutritionists, chefs and exercise trainers

• Providing specialist information for Men’s and Women's Issues

 

 

Sessions coming up in 2010 are :

Music Group, Cooking for One, Womens group Arts and Crafts, Gardening, Drama, Cycling and much more ...

 

 

What our members say:

 

I really enjoyed play reading; it has helped me with my language and conversation skills and made me feel more confident”

 

“Encouragement to those who lack confidence”

 

“Having the chance to live the same as the rest of society- making friends, forgetting you have a mental health problem”

 

Smoking cessation- “I’ve now given up for five weeks, I’ve got more energy and I can breathe more easily”

 

Cooking for one- “Cooking I found has been very therapeutic and helpful to take home”

 

“Tai Chi is really good to help focus and strengthen self. Friendly teacher I felt relaxed with”

 

“Look forward to starting the weight management club and helping to getting it started. It will be a help for so many”