The idea
Our mission for the project is to enhance the well-being of individuals by offering personalised support through peer-to-peer support, one-to-one sessions, workshops to educate and offer alternative methods of managing mental health, and engaging in well-being walks.
Workshops will focus on alternative methods to manage stress and anxiety including Yoga and Mindfulness to promote relaxation and mental clarity; Sound Baths to enhance emotional well-being; Drama Psychotherapy to create approaches to explore emotions and stressors. These diverse practices provide individuals with a toolkit for managing their mental health.
Our well-being walks are not just about exercise; they are an opportunity to educate participants on coping strategies, resilience-building and the importance of community support.
What we'll deliver
- Community engagement
- Higher employment rates
- Better relationships in the community
- Overall better mental health and well-being in the community
- Volunteering opportunities
Why it's a great idea
SIS is run by myself with lived experience of mental health whilst in the police force and appreciate the importance of support and alternative methods to control mental illness. A walking group and Mindfulness art sessions offers variety to the activities on offer and fosters a sense of community and connection amongst those facing challenges. By offering people alternative methods to manage their mental health, it not only reduces their symptoms but encourages them to move forward on their own journey.
Steps to get it done
- Buying the plants and equipment for well-being garden
- Digging and planting the beds with volunteers
- Opening the garden to the community
- Identifying individuals needs
- Preparing the workshops for those needs
- Delivering the workshops to individuals
Our group has grown and people attend regularly during which they have highlighted ideas to improve the project and what would benefit themselves. They have asked to incorporate workshops and more sessions involving art projects and drama led therapy. Also physical exercise including yoga, meditation and mindfulness. Three people within the groups have asked if they can help facilitate sessions and I now have those three people leading and developing the project'
I am already seeing people discussing their experiences and developing the new delivery of the project, for example a lady who initially attended with very low confidence is now facilitating the session around self-esteem. All updates about the project are advertised on social media which has grown and people often comment how the project is helping them move forward. Our community group feel that the project will allow them to continue to open up about their struggles.
