From wilderness survival skills to the art of baking bread, from cricket matches to engaging in creative pursuits, there’s something to cater to the diverse interests of individuals within the 23 wellbeing initiatives that have secured funding from Bradford Council’s Public Health team.
These grants are aimed at supporting projects that revolve around the 5 Ways to Wellbeing and the promotion of access to green spaces. Extensive evidence points towards five key methods for enhancing mental well-being.
Firstly, connecting with others helps us cultivate a sense of belonging and enables us to share positive experiences.
Secondly, engaging in physical activity triggers chemical changes in the brain, which can profoundly uplift one’s mood.
Thirdly, acquiring new skills can boost self-confidence, while acts of giving to others generate positive emotions and foster connections among people.
Lastly, being mindful, or paying attention to the present moment, enhances self-awareness and enriches our enjoyment of life.
The World Health Organisation has affirmed that spending time in green environments such as parks and woodlands has a positive impact on overall mental health and quality of life.
There exists a wide array of activities available for adults throughout the district. These include group nature walks, outdoor culinary experiences, creative writing sessions, woodcarving workshops, dance classes, art and craft sessions, nature exploration excursions, and much more. Some of these activities are specifically designed for groups of individuals at risk of health disparities, while others are open to the entire local community.
Grants ranging from £500 to £10,000 were made available, with projects being encouraged to consider the long-term implications of the funding. Certain organisations have opted to procure durable equipment, such as gardening tools, which can be utilised for years to come. Meanwhile, others will allocate the funding towards training for their staff and volunteers.
Sarah Muckle, Director of Public Health at Bradford Council said; “I am pleased that we can support these projects to improve people’s mental wellbeing across the district. It is great to see the variety of activities that are on offer, and I look forward to seeing what the community groups can achieve with this funding.”
The organisations that received these grants will be executing their projects across the Bradford District in the coming months. All activities will either be free or offered at a minimal cost. Further information about the projects and how you can participate can be accessed on the Bradford Council website.
The full list of projects awarded funding:
Cliffe Castle Support Group
BD4 Community Trust
Eden Community Association
Horton Community Farm
Many Hands CIC
Yorkshire MESMAC
Create Strength Group
MHA Communities
Bradford Community Broadcasting Ltd (BCB)
Hive Bradford
Keighley Association for Women and Childrens Centre
Staying Put
Reach Beyond / Millside Centre
The Girlington Centre
Keighley Creative
Get Out More CIC
West Bowling Community Advice & Training Centre
West Bowling Youth Initiative
Bradford People First & People First Keighley & Craven
African Caribbean Achievement Project
Lads West Yorkshire
