Wroxham has become a Mindful Village after 19 local people undertook training held by Broadland District Council.
The free training session provided mental health awareness and education and gave participants the skills and resources they need to help support people suffering with mental health issues.
Broadland District Council’s Deputy Leader Cllr Natasha Harpley and local Member Cllr Fran Whymark, visited Wroxham to congratulate the town’s new certified Wellbeing Champions.
Cllr Harpley, said: “With one in four adults and one in ten children experiencing mental illness, there has never been a greater need for support. By helping to train Wellbeing Champions we are throwing a lifeline to those suffering from mental health issues and to their families and friends who may also need support.
“We also know that one in six workers will experience depression, anxiety or problems relating to stress, so if you are an employer, this training could really benefit you, your staff and your customers. So, whether you’re an opticians, publican or hairdressers, please consider signing up to be a Wellbeing Champion.”
The scheme, which is already up and running in towns and villages across the district, also challenges the associated stigma around the illness, with Wellbeing Champions encouraged to have open conversations about mental health in the community.
The Council works with the Norfolk and Suffolk Foundation Trust’s Wellbeing Service and workplace health provider Thriving Workplaces to train Wellbeing Champions, with funding from the South Norfolk and Broadland Health and Wellbeing Partnership.
The Council’s Help Hub is supporting all Wellbeing Champions and has a Mental Health Support Worker to talk through residents’ concerns and provide advice on next steps, and the different services available. Professional support will also be provided by Evolve for any referrals by Wellbeing Champions for more complex cases.
All groups will receive branding that shows they have Wellbeing Champions in recognition of their commitment and training. The next training session will be held in Blofield on 26 September. For more information visit www.southnorfolkandbroadland.gov.uk/communities/mindful-towns-villages
