Many of us know what it’s like to be told that we need to get our 5-a-day, or try to get more exercise, or quit smoking… but what really makes us think about changing our lifestyle is seeing it work with our own eyes. If you know anyone who has had a fantastic experience, you’ll know that their passion can inspire others to give it a go.
We're trying to set up a network of volunteer Health Heroes who can use their own experiences to go out and inspire others!
So what are health heroes here to do?
It's all about inspiring people!
Healthy living means taking steps to improve our own wellbeing and we naturally all have different ways of doing this. But with lots of Health Heroes doing their bit to spread the word throughout Mendip, we can get our communities:
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Living more active lifestyles
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Enjoying healthy food
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Taking part in community life
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Knowing where to get help when it’s needed
Here’s how it works
You can be a Health Hero in whatever way suits you. Here are a few ideas to inspire you!
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Get a group together to do a sponsored walk, or become a Health Walk leader
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If you’ve got green fingers, why not see if others in the neighbourhood are interested in creating a community garden?
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How about joining a food co-op to buy fresh local veg at an affordable price?
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You can help me spread the word by putting up notices and posters for events when they come around
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Send me news of activities in your area, or a success story you want to share with your fellow Heroes
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Join Mendip District Council’s Active Somerset campaign by registering as a Community Activator (contact me for more information)
There's lots of free training available from different organisations. Have a look at the sessions on offer below and if you're interested let Kate Eastment know.
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Flexercise Leader – gentle exercise, to keep people mobile
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Health Walk Leader – gentle walks, good for the heart and soul!
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Brief Intervention Advisor – learn to talk to people about quitting smoking and help direct them to support services (1-2 hours training)
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Food Hygiene (if it’s for a community activity)
Who do I contact?
Kate Eastment is our new neighbourhood project worker and she can give you the support you need and to keep you up to date with news that may be of interest.
If you become a health hero you will get:
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an “e-newsletter” about Health & Wellbeing every 3 months, starting in March
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to hear about relevant activities and events in your area
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help you to access free training, if you want it
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help to apply for your Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check if you're leading a community activiity
Contact Kate
Kate Eastment
Neighbourhood Project Worker (Health & Wellbeing)
Telephone 01749 334645
Mobile 07809 192035
Email keastment@mendiphousing.co.uk
