Mindful towns and villages on the increase in Broadland

The Mindful Towns and Villages initiative encourages communities to build local networks of trained Wellbeing Champions who can help people access support, reduce isolation and promote wellbeing across their neighbourhoods.

In Spixworth, members of the Handy Hug Café, held at Spixworth Community Hub, completed the training alongside parish councillors, strengthening the village's network of wellbeing support. Old Catton recorded the highest number of trained Wellbeing Champions (13), with representatives from the parish council, the Old Catton Horticultural Club and local Scouting groups all taking part.

In Horsham St Faiths, champions come from organisations including St Faiths Crematorium and the St Faiths Sunflower Federation growing group, helping to extend wellbeing support across different sections of the community.

Meanwhile, Horsford's Wellbeing Champions represent a range of local organisations, including St Margaret's Church, Horsford Church Rooms, which provide a community hub and social activities, the Community Sports Foundation and the parish council.

Belaugh also achieved Mindful Village status, demonstrating how even the smallest communities can play an important role in supporting residents' wellbeing. This achievement reflects the commitment of local people and organisations to creating supportive, connected communities where residents feel able to seek help and look out for one another.

Broadland District Council’s deputy leader, Natasha Harpley, said:

Strong communities are built on people looking out for one another, and these villages have shown a real commitment to supporting the wellbeing of local residents. By training Wellbeing Champions and creating local networks of support, they are helping to make it easier for people to access help, stay connected and improve their wellbeing. Congratulations to everyone involved in achieving Mindful Village status."

The Mindful Villages programme forms part of wider efforts to improve health and wellbeing across Broadland by empowering local communities and organisations to work together in support of local residents. For more information and to get involved click here.