Benefits:

CR1, CR2, CR3, CR5, CR6, CR8 

Need

The community engagement within the CIT (Communities in Transition) area revealed escalating concerns due to the cost-of-living crisis, including poverty, social isolation, rising fuel and food costs, and fear of crime. These issues highlighted the need for direct support to the most vulnerable families in the area. 

Action

In response, a programme was developed to assemble and distribute health and wellbeing parcels to these vulnerable families. Additionally, a complimentary workshop programme was delivered, addressing local needs and building skills in areas like money and debt management, budgeting for Christmas, staying warm, and learning cost-effective cooking techniques and nutritional awareness. 

Result

The health parcels provided residents with essential items such as air fryers, slow cookers, hot water bottles, blankets, draft excluders, low energy light bulbs, and flasks. These items were selected to help families tackle issues stemming from the cost of living crisis and included information to improve connectivity to local services. 

The workshops resulted in the development of confidence, knowledge, and new skills among participants. The follow-on support and advice offered by the programme facilitators were critical in sustaining these outcomes and integrating new competencies into daily routines. 

Additionally, through collaboration with the Cliftonville Community Centre, the programme connected with the Manor Street Women’s Group, comprising an inter-generational cohort. Participants noted the benefits of learning alongside people of different ages, highlighting the value of inter-generational learning environments in communities with familial breakdown or a lack of positive role models. Following the programme, this group is exploring ways to reinforce the skills developed or to design new initiatives to further support the health and wellbeing of the women involved.