Celebrating Community for Mental Health Awareness Week 12 to 18 May

For four years, Men’s Shed Worcester has been creating a space where woodworking and crafting bring people together, combatting social isolation and loneliness.

With 40+ members, the Shed offers a supportive environment for making, connecting, and sharing. From repairing public noticeboards to building buddy benches, it's all about giving back and staying connected. 

Recently, thanks to a Public Health grant, the Shed’s Crypt was transformed with a kitchen, social area, and disabled toilet, allowing longer hours and new creative courses like mosaic tiling and stained glass!

"The Shed has been a lifeline for me. It’s like having a second family. Joining the Shed gave me a new sense of purpose and self-worth."

Community groups looking to apply for a health and wellbeing grant can visit: www.worcestershire.gov.uk/PhysicalActivityGrant

Olympic Medallist & World Champion Steve Cram joins our Director of Public Health, Dr Lisa McNally to talk about how running is more than just exercise—it’s a game-changer for mental health!

Boost your mood. Connect with others. Feel unstoppable.

Whether you're chasing a personal best or just enjoying the movement, running is a powerful way to improve wellbeing and strengthen community bonds.

Ready to lace up? Join the Wythall & Hollywood Fun Run! Book your place now: www.wythallhollywoodfunrun.org.uk
 

At St Peter’s Droitwich CofE Academy, pupils are finding calm, confidence, and connection—thanks to two adorable therapy guinea pigs!

With the support of a Public Health wellbeing grant, the school welcomed Munchy & Crunchy from a local rescue centre, providing a safe space for comfort, engagement, and emotional support through pet care.

"They cheer you up when you're feeling sad." – says Oliver 

Thanks to the grant, the school was able to purchase hutches, indoor/outdoor runs, and accessories, ensuring their newest furry friends are well cared for by all year groups.

Teacher Caroline Simms says: "Munchy & Crunchy are therapy for the children AND our staff!"

Want to learn more about Public Health wellbeing grants for schools? Click here: www.worcestershire.gov.uk/EducationalSettingsGrant

Knockout Success! Building Futures Through Boxing

Our Public Health grant is delivering real change in the community—supporting young people to find stability, purpose, and a second chance.

At Redditch Self Defence Association, Pete Martin’s boxing programs go beyond physical training. They are lifelines.

"Imagine being homeless, disconnected—then finding a place that believes in you."

Thanks to free boxing sessions & mentorship, one individual has turned their life around and is now off the streets, training as a part-time coach and in a healthy relationship.

This is the power of community.

Find out more about how a Public Health grant could turn your idea into a reality here: www.worcestershire.gov.uk/YouthInnovationGrant

Please see below our list of community support available to help support your physical and mental wellbeing. 
 

Physical Activity 

• Healthy Worcestershire Sessions
• Staying healthy as an adult
• Getting Active
• Community Directory – Finding what is available near you
• Wythall and Hollywood Fun Run 

Mental Health 

• Mental Health support for adults
• Support with loneliness and isolation
• Mens Shed Worcester 

Support for your family 

• Best Start Worcestershire
• Family Hubs in Worcestershire
• Children's and young people's mental wellbeing

Health and wellbeing grants

• Youth grants
• Educational settings grants
• Physical activity grants
• Stay connected grants