Merseybank Christmas Party and parcels

Christmas party with gifts to help support people who are isolated or with low income.

Benefit of social activities

Connecting with others is one of the Five Ways to Wellbeing, five evidence-based actions which can improve personal wellbeing. Social connectedness has a strong positive impact on both physical and mental health. Increased social connectedness is linked to reduced mortality risk, healthier lifestyles and higher cognitive functioning. Socially well-connected people are more resilient, feel more able to take charge of their lives and less stressed. Older adults that are socially connected experience increased life satisfaction.

Location

Merseybank popup shop

Project team

Merseybank Residents Group

Quids In Project (Southway)

Aim

Local residents knew of people living on the estate, who would not be able to do anything special over the Christmas period. Some would be unable to heat their homes. We funded the group to host a party, and for those who were housebound, created gift parcels.

It created a sense of inclusion and reduced isolation.

Testimonial:

“I never expected this. Thankyou. It’s a lovely thought, and I’m not afraid of being alone on Christmas day.”

Evaluation

The project was thought up by local volunteers who manage the local Quids In shop, and so are very aware of the difficult situation of many people living on the estate. The event increased people’s sense of inclusion and community.

Strategic links to local/national policies

Benefit	Policy
Social inclusion	Manchester Population Health Plan NHS Five Year Forward View (Department of Health, 2014)
Enabling resilient communities	Greater Manchester Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy
Increased mental wellbeing	Manchester Health and Wellbeing Strategy Greater Manchester Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy
Helping people live healthier lives	Healthy Lives, Healthy People (MH Government, 2010) The Manchester Locality Plan – A Healthier Manchester Manchester Health and Wellbeing Strategy Manchester Prevention Programme