Christmas engagement 2020
Christmas engagement eventBenefit of community based projects
Volunteering in community projects and performing acts of kindness can have a positive impact on mental wellbeing. There is a small amount of evidence to suggest that getting involved in environmental activities and projects may also have a positive impact on physical health. Community engagement can foster a greater sense of ownership and identification with the local area, which may lead to long-term sustainability. It can also combat social exclusion and empower individuals.
Location
Brooklands Church of the Nazarene
Wythenshawe Forum
Project team
Emma Farrell
Phil Tomlinson
Aim
Due to current Covid-19 restrictions it has been very difficult to engage with new residents, but in addition to this we were hearing how difficult this time has been for people. I continually hear how isolating it has been.
We (both NHWs in Wythenshawe) decided to try and communicate with a small number of people over Christmas. We offered a free Christmas gift bag containing bauble, donated Christmas cake, winter health leaflets, Christmas card and pudding. In exchange for a conversation and complete questionnaire with us.
Evaluation
Considering Covid-19 restrictions this project was very positive and both NHWs gained some new contacts to work with moving forward.
We also managed to promote existing activities and winter health.
When Covid-19 restrictions begin to lift we will be able to start moving forward with some of the ideas that have been put forward. Until then we are communicating with individuals via phone calls and have invited some of them to join the Wythenshawe Age Friendly Network.
Strategic links to local/national policies
Benefit |
Policy |
Increased mental wellbeing |
|
Social inclusion More engaged in community |
Manchester Population Health Plan |
Community ownership and long-term sustainability |
|
Empowerment of individuals |
|
Increased physical activity and physical health |
Research/evidence base
Curry et al (2018) Happy to help? A systematic review and meta-analysis of the effects of performing acts of kindness on the well-being of the actor. Journal of Experimental Social Psychology, 76, pp. 320-329
Husk et al; Cochrane Systematic Review (2016) Participation in environmental enhancement and conservation activities for health and well‐being in adults: a review of quantitative and qualitative evidence
NCVO (2018) Impactful Volunteering: Understanding the Impact of Volunteering on Volunteers
Pillemer et al (2010) Environmental Volunteering and Health Outcomes over a 20-Year Period, The Gerontologist, 50 (5), pp. 594-602
Public Health England (2015) A guide to community-centred approaches for health and wellbeing
Contact
Emma Farrell - Neighbourhood Health Worker
T. 0161 271 0582
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