We are a community-run leisure centre in an inner-city area of Nottingham. We provide low-cost exercise and social activities for local residents and people from all over Nottinghamshire. We have a small, warm swimming pool, gym, and hall where we host a range of health and wellbeing activities.
We welcome over 1,000 people per week through our doors, including school children, students, adults with physical and learning disabilities and older people. We provide a safe space where everyone can improve their physical and mental health and wellbeing. Lenton is a multi-cultural area with significant migrant and student populations. We are aware of the significantly high level of mental health issues within both the student population and amongst the permanent residents, so wish to enhance our offer of a warm space to meet people, and get assistance with completing online forms and signposted to other relevant support, and create additional volunteering opportunities.
We are collaborating with Guidance and Growth C.I.C. which is a community-centric initiative that brings individuals together to engage in hands-on, collaborative projects centred around craftsmanship, horticulture, and peer support. Through the creation of shared spaces known as ‘Dad’s Den’, they provide a sanctuary where people from all walks of life can connect, create, and cultivate a wide array of skills and relationships.
In addition to skill development, they place a strong emphasis on mental health and emotional well-being. They recognise the therapeutic value of working with one's hands, the camaraderie found in shared endeavours, and the importance of having a supportive network. Their peer-to-peer mental health support initiatives offer a compassionate space for individuals to share, listen, and find companionship in others with similar life experiences.
