We are thrilled to announce that we have been shortlisted for the prestigious APSE (Association for Public Service Excellence) Service Awards 2024 in the category of Best Service Team. This is in recognition of our commitment to delivering outstanding services to our community, particularly through our various health and well-being programmes.
Health & Well-being Programmes
Holiday Activities and Food Programme (HAF) – We’ve delivered our HAF programme to over 250 children aged 5 – 11 during the holiday period. Our programme goes beyond just providing fun and engaging multi sports activities, it also extends to parents, offering assistance around financial planning and menta health support.
Northwood ShapeShifters – In collaboration with LIVV Housing, the Northwood Shapeshifters program is a rolling six-month initiative designed to promote a healthier lifestyle through exercise, well-being, and cookery classes. Over 100 women have benefited from this program, including one remarkable participant who lost 35 pounds.
A participant expressed their gratitude: “Shapeshifters has changed my life, and my mental health has vastly improved.”
‘Activity For Life’ GP Referral Scheme – ‘Activity for Life’ GP Referral Scheme is a long-established referral scheme for residents suffering from moderate to high-risk medical conditions. Participants are encouraged to exercise three times a week in specialist classes tailored to improve their health. Over the past 12 months, 750 residents have taken part, and the results have been life-changing.
Women and Men’s Mental Health Clubs – Over the past year, we have launched dedicated mental health clubs for both women and men, in partnership with the award-winning Evolving Mindset. These clubs provide physical activity and well-being services at two leisure sites, helping to tackle the stigma associated with mental health issues. Over 150 participants have benefited from these sessions.
Winter Wellness – Our Winter Wellness initiative has been vital in supporting the community during the colder months. We have provided dedicated sessions at sites offering warm spaces, with wraparound activities as part of our council’s commitment to addressing the cost-of-living crisis. This program has been accessed by over 100 residents during the winter period, providing them with much-needed support and warmth.
Being shortlisted for the APSE Service Awards 2024 is an incredible achievement that acknowledges the hard work and dedication of our team. We are immensely proud of the impact these programs have had on the lives of our community members and look forward to continuing our efforts to improve the health and well-being of our members.
The winners will be announced at the APE Annual Charity Awards Dinner, in Bristol on 12 September 2024.
