Mindful villages say it’s good to talk

Drayton and Taverham have both become Mindful Villages after about two dozen people took part in training held by Broadland District Council.

In Drayton, those who volunteered to be trained included a complimentary therapist based at the Bob Carter Centre; representatives of the Hope Church, who offer children’s activities, youth and social opportunities and a men’s breakfast club; and the chair and members of the parish council.

In Taverham, those who came forward to be Wellbeing Champions included the chair of Taverham Day Centre, GP surgery staff, a representative from the Roundwood Bowls Club, N&N staff and the Mindset HR business.

District councillor Natasha Harpley said: “It’s really heartwarming to see so many people coming forward to help their neighbours.

“With many of us experiencing mental health issues each year, building a supportive community is crucial. Mental health training programmes like our Mindful Towns initiative equip individuals with the skills to make a real difference.

“These Wellbeing Champions will be vital in providing immediate support and improving the wellbeing of our residents.”

The scheme, which is already up and running in towns and villages across the district, challenges the associated stigma around mental health problems, with Wellbeing Champions encouraged to have open conversations about it.

Anyone needing to talk can seek them out and get support, find out where to get help or just have a chat.

The council works with NHS Norfolk and Waveney Talking Therapies and an internal teaching team to train volunteers, helped by funding from the South Norfolk and Broadland Health and Wellbeing Partnership.

For more information, visit www.southnorfolkandbroadland.gov.uk/communities/mindful-towns-villages