Deeplish Community Centre launches Wellbeing Project

Deeplish Community Centre has launched a ‘Wellbeing Project’ in response to demand for welfare advice.

The project came about because of a number of people facing difficulty in obtaining proper advice on social, welfare, disability, debt and financial matters, or facing barriers due to language, and lack of professional advice.

Health co-ordinator, Maniza Khan, said: “The aim of this project will be to promote health and well-being and improve local people’s participation in well-being activities through informal education and support. We are really proud to continue this project through support from local councillors.

Councillor Allen Brett, who initially funded the project, said: “Our aim is also to support elderly and vulnerable people facing barriers due to health, age, mobility and access to safe and accessible transport. This group is fantastic and all participants are keen to participate in their local community centre activities.

“There is also a high number of people facing difficulties in obtaining proper advice on social, welfare, disability, debt and financial matters due to changes in welfare system. We hope to support our local residents in providing proper welfare advice and information whilst attending activities at Deeplish Community Centre.”

Councillor Mohammad Zaman spoke with participants on the effects of isolation and mental health. He gave valuable tips to remain active and get involved in such community based activities. He also highlighted the importance of such community projects making lasting impact on individuals and groups.

He said: “Every time we visit Deeplish Community Centre it's providing diverse and community lead services and activities for the local community. We are pleased to see social and wellbeing activities provided at local level where volunteers are a key part of running this project. We aim to support and strengthen such an active group in our ward."

Sohail Ahmad, manager of Deeplish Community Centre, said: “This project will provide people a unique opportunity to get together to share their experiences, and partake in well-being activities such as armchair exercise, information on health-related community activities, health checks and other activities.

“This will help us to end social isolation, promote and celebrate friendship circles and enable people to live with increased confidence and cohesion. This will also raise self-esteem, provide isolated people with a better connection and support with social activities.”

The project is held at Deeplish Community centre on a weekly basis, every Monday 11.00am – 2.00pm.