Unprecedented levels of uncertainty and change in society have been created by COVID-19 which has created mental health and wellbeing issues for many. Crawley’s community has been badly impacted through loss of people, jobs and connection. Talk, Heal & Walk wellbeing groups will help people recover their resilience when circumstances in their life are causing them emotional difficulties. This amazing service will not only benefit those attending, because don’t forget, our individual wellbeing is important to prevent not only us hitting crisis mode, but also to stop the ricocheting effect that has on others who we care for and who care about us. As COVID-19 lockdown levels change, the vaccination role-out creeps its way through the carers and breadwinners of the community, these groups, run in compliance with the shifting lockdown restrictions, will provide a shared experience of walking, talking and refreshments to set people back on their path of resilience and create healing.

What we'll deliver:

• Free access to a walking, talking wellbeing group for adults in Crawley park settings
• Group facilitation by a trained counsellor enables people restore their wellbeing
• Individuals will receive much needed emotional support to recuperate from their COVID-19 experience
• Individuals will be selected to make a complimentary group of four
• The service will be adapted as required to run in compliance with the anticipated shifting lockdown restrictions

Why it's a great idea:

THAW will provide professional support to people struggling with the impact of COVID-19 on their mental health and wellbeing, help them get outside in nature on a weekly walk which will improve their fitness and mental health. This combined activity enables people to recover their resilience and emotional wellbeing, whilst creating connection to others. It will also help prevent an emotional crisis. As one person’s suffering often impacts those they care for and about, their wellbeing will also improve as attendees return to their old selves. There is a benefit to the economy through assisting the workforce and volunteers in recovering their resilience. This much needed free service provides professional support to the community helping to address the impact the pandemic has had, and continues to have, on peoples’ health and wellbeing. On completion of this successful pilot and secured funding, THAW will remain available through our collaboration with Crawley Social Prescribing.

Steps to get it done:

• Following promotion of service, the registration of interested people and establishment of first two groups (March)
• Completion of first two walking groups (end April)
• Half year review of service and adapt if required (July)
• Incorporate Talk, Heal and Walk as part of HCCG routine service (December)

What sets apart this service from community volunteer groups is the role of the counsellors, who are trained in this work and will be confident in managing groups and individual’s psychological distress. They will be able to identify and signpost those who require further perhaps more specialised support. This service aims to reach a minimum of 56 people running from April to December which is based on running two groups a month. At the end of 2021, Talk, Heal & Walk will be included in the established list of services HCCG provide.