More than 60 residents from the Old Bethnal Green estate came together last month at the Minerva community centre to voice ideas on how to improve health and wellbeing in the area. The meeting was part of the Old Bethnal Green programme – launched last November which aims to support residents to find their own ways to improve their health and wellbeing, bringing communities together in the process. It has an emphasis on local projects by local people, recruiting and training volunteers and apprentices to support the programme delivery.
The Old Bethnal Green programme is part of Well London, a programme funded by the Greater London Authority and Big Lottery which is being delivered in partnership with Tower Hamlets Council and Tower Hamlets Community Housing (THCH). Led by Mike Tyrrell, who grew up in Tower Hamlets, THCH has made a point of promoting healthy living to its residents with some excellent projects over the last few years.
At January’s meeting, residents took turns to tell the packed room about their ideas for community projects, being alloted just four minutes to present their idea and answer questions. At the end of the session, residents were able to discuss and vote for the projects they preferred most Projects had to address at least one of the Well London priorities of physical activity, healthy eating, healthy open spaces, mental wellbeing and arts and culture. A total of 15 ideas were put forward including a parent and children homework club, martial arts, Zumba and circuit classes for all ages, days trips for older residents, cooking on a budget, and sew and mend classes to help residents repair and recycle their own clothes.
At the end of the presentations residents were able to vote for the three projects they would most like to see happen. Many of the activities will be delivered by residents themselves, giving them an opportunity to develop their leadership and skills through the additional training opportunities available through the programme.
Mayor of Tower Hamlets Lutfur Rahman said: “The Well London project is a great initiative that brings communities together and sees residents take control over their own health by gaining new knowledge and skills. It’s great to people pitching in to provide further opportunities and support to help improve a local area.”
Cllr Abdul Asad, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Services, said: “This project is a great way to empower communities and utilise local expertise. It also provides a supportive social network, building on individual confidence and overall wellbeing.”
Dr Somen Banerjee, Director of Public Health for Tower Hamlets Council, said: “The event brought residents from different backgrounds together for a fun and interactive morning. We look forward to seeing the successful projects help shape and benefit the local area.”
•The latest projects will begin running in February until at least June. For more information on the Well London Old Bethnal Green programme contact Shamim Hossain, 07956-513 729, Shamim.Hossain@thch.org.uk.