South Norfolk expands mental health support with new Mindful Villages

As part of the Mindful Towns and Villages initiative, the Council has now trained over 170 Wellbeing Champions across 14 towns and villages across the district. In Burston and Shimpling, six new Champions were trained at The Space, a vibrant local venue offering a wide range of mental health and wellbeing services.

Councillor Graham Minshull, Cabinet Member for Supporting People, commented:

Through the Mindful Towns and Villages initiative, we’re empowering local people with the tools, training, and support they need to make a real difference, ensuring that help is available close to home, when and where it’s needed most.

Among the newly trained Champions is Lisa Webster, Co-founder of The Space and Wellbeing Champion for Burston and Shimpling. Lisa plays a central role in organising free monthly community events at The Space, supported by the National Lottery Community Fund and Norfolk Community Foundation. These events include classes, treatments, workshops and a welcoming Stay & Play for families.

Also completing the training is Aynur Bailey, a passionate advocate for accessible mental health support. Through her business, Papillon Emotional Wellbeing, Aynur offers Drawing and Talking therapies in Burston and supports events at The Space. In Long Stratton, she runs a free weekly Chatter and Natter table at the leisure centre and an evening session at the library, helping to reduce isolation and promote social connection.

Residents interested in becoming Wellbeing Champions can sign up to the next training event 'Mental Health Awareness in the Community', on Tuesday 19 August, 6-8pm, Lincoln Hall Hingham, The Fairland, Hingham, NR9 4HW

For more information on how to get involved or become a Wellbeing Champion, please visit South Norfolk Council's website.