For some families and residents in Winyates, getting the right support at the right time has not always been easy. Challenges including financial pressures, isolation and mental wellbeing can affect everyday life, while having to travel outside the local area to access services can create an additional barrier. This highlighted an opportunity to bring more support directly into the heart of the community, in a place where people already felt welcome and connected.
REACH CIC wanted to build on the trust it had already established within the community, particularly with families and the local Eastern European community. Its aim was to bring more support directly into the neighbourhood, helping families improve their health and wellbeing, feel less isolated and become more confident and resilient.
A Public Health Community Wellbeing Grant from Worcestershire County Council enabled REACH CIC to expand its children and family support and provide more opportunities for residents to get help in a familiar and welcoming community setting. This included Baby Sensory and toddler groups, parenting support, nutrition and confidence-building sessions, help with benefits and budgeting, volunteering opportunities and community activities. The work was strengthened through partnerships with Family Hubs, schools, Act on Energy, NHS teams and other local organisations.
The impact has been felt across different aspects of family and community wellbeing. Parents reported greater confidence, improved bonding and a better understanding of their child’s development, while mothers participating in wellbeing activities reported reduced anxiety and improved self-esteem. Targeted activities, including the Polish Toddler Group and Golden Gatherings for older residents, have also helped reduce loneliness and build stronger community connections.
Bringing health support into the community has made a tangible difference. During one health-themed coffee morning, a resident was found to have extremely high blood pressure and was immediately advised to seek medical assessment. He suffered a heart attack the following day and received hospital treatment. Reflecting on the impact, REACH CIC said: “Had he not attended the session and been prompted to seek medical help, the outcome could have been far worse.”
The support has also helped families facing more complex challenges. One parent who was struggling with her child’s emerging SEND needs received practical help with school meetings, the EHCP process, home learning and accessing wider support. Following this support, she reported feeling “more confident, more informed and better able to advocate for her child.”
The benefits are expected to continue beyond the life of the grant. REACH CIC has strengthened its relationships with health services, Family Hubs, schools and community partners, developed its volunteer base and generated additional income through its second-hand shop and room hire. Some partnerships have already developed into regular local provision, including weekly health drop-in sessions, helping to make preventative health and wellbeing support a more established part of community life.
Could a Community Wellbeing Grant help you bring an idea to life and improve health and wellbeing in your community? Find out more about Worcestershire County Council’s Community Wellbeing Grants and how to apply: Community Wellbeing Grants | Worcestershire County Council