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Registered Charity Number 1151980

Company Number 8013774

June 2013 Quarterly Meeting notes

Date & Time: 13th June 12, 10am – 1pm

Venue: Lighthouse West London, 111-117 Lancaster Road, W11 1QT

Theme: Preventing ill health & maintaining wellbeing

Eddie Chan, BME Health Forum Chair and Director of the Chinese National Healthy Living Centre, welcomed all to the meeting and introduced the first item.

 

Item 1:

Improving migrants’ understanding of the NHS as an effective form of prevention

Ambra Caruso, Health Project Coordinator, Sylwia Lemanska, Health Project Coordinator (maternity cover), Vivien Davidhazy, Mental Wellbeing project coordinator, Migrants Resource Centre

Background on the Migrants Resource Centre:

A registered charity in existence since 1984 offering a wide range of services to migrants, refugees and asylum seekers.

Since 2008 MRC have run a Health Inclusion project designed to improve access to health services and provide info on health and wellbeing to our service user group.

We see migrants who come from all over the world. We see many newcomers to the UK but also people who have already lived here for a long time.

So why do our service users need this kind of support?

  • New to the country, do not know how the NHS works, do not know how to access services
  • Do not speak/read/write in English
  • Do not have a social network
  • Less likely to be receptive to mainstream health promotion messages
  • Cultural differences

We manage their expectations whilst sending health promotion messages in a way that they can better understand. We offer support for people adapting to a new lifestyle in this country.

We also work in partnership with other organisations:

  • taking part in health fairs in local council estates,
  • offer yoga classes
  • run health promotion workshops.
  • We run in house counselling
  • Host Expert Patient Programmes
  • Bilingual Wellbeing support service

However our main activity is one to one information and advice. This is a guideline as to how we do this:

We have a general registration for new clients every week and service user will see the Health inclusion coordinator for a session. If needs are more complex further sessions and follow ups are booked. The following is what is usually covered:

  • Find their GP on the NHS choices website, print a map for them, tell them how to register
  • Give basic information about the NHS (e.g. NHS is free and is not related to NI contributions; how the referral system works; what to do in case of emergency)
  • Give info regarding interpreters
  • Help them communicate better with their doctor and help manage their expectations i.e appointments just 10 mins.
  • Assessment of entitlements – HC1 forms (e.g. many asylum seekers do not know that they can access free dental care or get help with prescriptions..)
  • Talk to them about health promotion activities

Sylwia Lemanska spoke to forum about group activities that she has been organising at MRC.

  • Yoga sessions in partnership with the Westminster health improvement team,
  • Men’s health workshop – many men find it difficult to talk about health issues and may not present themselves to a health professional with these issues.
  • Sleep workshops in partnership with Westminster IAPT
  • Diabetes awareness event in partnership with Diabetes UK

Vivien Davidhazy then spoke to the Forum about the Wellbeing support service at MRC.

This is partnership project with the BME Health Forum and involving 6 community organisations altogether

  • Midaye Somali development network,
  • A Moveable Feast
  • Foundations UK
  • Chinese National Healthy Living Centre
  • Healthier Life 4 You
  • Migrants Resource Centre

It is a bilingual one to one mental wellbeing service where the support is offered by bilingual volunteers who have been trained by the BME Health Forum in basic counselling skills and advocacy to help clients in their own language who are going through a difficult period in their life and not at the stage where they are accessing mental health services.

[To view the PowerPoint presentation click on the link here.]

Q&A

Question: Do you just work with residents in Westminster?

Answer: On the whole MRC offers its services to all migrants London wide – however some services are restricted by funding to Westminster residents.

Question:Can you say something about the different expectations that people arrive to you with?

Answer: It can be a variety of things but understanding of healthy eating for example, in the Bangladeshi community may need to be reinterpreted for UK lifestyle. Or else different expectations around the length of time a GP will see you and also the referral system can lead to stress and disappointment. 

Question: It is known that if you are from a BME community you as twice as likely to end up on a psychiatric ward is something you seen evidence of in your work?

Answer: We happen to be situated very near the Gordon hospital (for adult mental health services CNWL) and actually we get quite a few referrals from the hospital to us.

Item 2:

Out of Hospital Strategy

Neville Purssell, Vice Chair, Central London Clinical Commissioning group

Central London Commissioning group will be commissioning for ¾ of Westminster (not Queens Park and Paddington).

There is a strong need of reorganisation of urgent care across North West London. Primary care and out of hospital care is good but changes need to be made. People are living longer, there are more people with long term health conditions putting pressure on social and community care. Currently there is a variation in quality and access and standards must improve.

Under the current model we can’t afford to meet future demands as hospital all too often becomes the answer where if adequate out of hospital care would be more easily accessible at an earlier stage this might not be an eventuality.

[For notes on the rest of this presentation please request the detailed PowerPoint slides by emailingvivien.davidhazy@bmehf.org.uk]

Q&A

Question: Voluntary sector involvement seems an afterthought in your strategy. You mention wanting to work closely with voluntary and community organisations in the design and delivery of this strategy but can you say a little more on HOW you will involve them?

Answer: It wasn’t actually an afterthought – more a difficulty in placing this element in the talk. Bernard Collyer of Voluntary Action Westminster is on our commissioning board. He is acting as a signposter to make sure we involve the right people in the Voluntary Community sector when making these strategies. Admittedly we do have to do more.

Comment: After half voluntary community sector services are closed due to de-commissioning it will be hard to involve community and voluntary organisations as many of them will not exist.

Question: What is the time scale for the out of hospital strategy?

Answer: It is a 3 year journey. Some things are already on track. Wellwatch started last week. The integrated Pilot is 8 months away and the 111 pilot went live 4 weeks ago.

Question: How is what you are doing reflected in what is being implemented in other parts of the country?

Answer: We have tried to take on the best bits of what is happening elsewhere. Wellwatch for example, has been implemented successfully in Birmingham, Croydon and Tooting and also in other parts of the UK.

Nafsika Thalassis (BME Health Forum Director) commented that Nevill Purssell has been one of the most supportive of all the GPs in the CCG and having the director of VAW on the board is also indicative of an acknowledgment of the importance of involving the voluntary sector. Nafsika also encouraged organisations to approach and talk to Neville.

Question: Regarding the issue of self care – Taking into account cultural differences in how one perceives self care is an issue to consider in your approach to advocating it and so hindering unnecessary A&E admissions.

Answer: Yes I agree and in we have so far worked with the Marylebone Bangladesh Society running workshops and info sessions to help us with this.

Further comment: That is good but we need to consider how we reach those who do not go to these kinds of workshops.

Comment (Leslie Soden – CLCH): Outreach seems to be of key importance. A lot of our patients don’t know about our community services – we need to have outreach which is something we do not have capacity for. Is this something you could consider. We want to reach out but clinicians do not have enough time. In the commissioning it would be good to have awareness training built into the commissioning on ‘how the patient happens’ for example.

Item 3:

Wayfinder Project

Redi Kowa, Wayfinder – Age Concern Kensington & Chelsea

The Wayfinder project's aim is to reach out to people over 55 who need information on local services eg. finance and benefits, health, social activities or general wellbeing.

Some of these services include:

  • Befriending
  • Crime prevention service (reinforcing locks and access to gardens etc.)
  • Escorting services
  • Inter- relational project (e.g younger people helping older people with mobile phones etc.)
  • Skype workshops (helping older people use skype and so better connected to friends and relatives)
  • Art workshops
  • Shopping trips
  • Information (advice, benefits, repairs issues, taxes, taxicards, advocacy)

Wayfinders aim to reach those who are hard to reach e.g they are house bound.

We have contacted GPs in K&C so they should know they can refer anyone over 55 to our services even if they don’t need anything in particular they may want to approach us for something like volunteering.

We work closely with district nurses as they work with house bound people so we get a lot of referrals from them. We would ask them first to get consent from the patient and then we would give them a phone call followed by a house visit where we would assess their needs.

At home service

We can refer patients to our At Home Service which cost £16 per hour for personal care, washing and cleaning or £13 per hour for domestic care – cleaning, ironing and also nail cutting.

This is a very reliable popular service.

Health & Wellbeing services:

  • Memory cafe
  • Dementia outreach service
  • Outings and art workshops

Wayfinders have visited all the GPs in K&C to inform them of the Wayfinders project and in face have outreach services located in some GP practices where they can provide space.  We have 2 staff members at some GP practices taking referrals right there.

More information can be found at www.wayfinderkc.org.uk

Item 4:

Tailored health interventions for Westminster Arabic and Bangladeshi communities

Phayza Fudlalla, Community Health Coordinator, A Moveable Feast

A Moveable Feast was established in 2004 to work with BMER communities in SW1 to address evidenced inequalities including high unemployment, poor qualifications, barriers to services, ill health and low income, following  needs assessment consultation for the Arabic speaking and Bangladeshi community in 2004

In 2009 AMF was incorporated into the Abbey Community Association Ltd , which  is a well established charity founded in 1948.

AMF now  has 650 users from local BMER communities, including some of the hardest-to-reach such as lone parents, carers and those suffering from long-term illness and disabilities.

AMF originally operated in the SW1 renewal area, which is characterised by pockets of deprivation (Churchill Gardens,  Milbank and Victoria wards), surrounded by areas of prosperity

Abbey_Centre_QM_TALK_pic.JPG

Tailored Health and Wellbeing  Intervention programmes

AMF has been involved in  delivering  a combination of programmes to improve the health  and wellbeing of its target communities including:

  • Healthy Eating
  • Physical Activity
  • Cardiovascular Disease Screening and  Prevention programme
  • Health Promotion Workshops
  • After School Club
  • Carers Support Meetings
  • Social Enterprises
  • Signposting

Healthy Eating Programme

  • Eat and Meet
  • Cook and Eat
  • Cook Book
  • Fit for Life
  • Gardening
  • Weigh-in and nutrition advice
  • Cook and Eat with after school children

Physical Activity Programme

  • Women- only swimming  sessions
  • Gym corporate membership for men
  • Gym corporate membership for women
  • Women –only aerobic sessions
  • Walking group
  • Women –only yoga and tai-chi sessions

Health Promotion Workshops

During 2010/2011 the programme was delivered in partnership with a local GP and funded through  NHS Westminster the GP Innovation Award

Aims of workshops were to raise awareness of health around different topics  and advocate preventative measures and/or specific management and/or offer screening in a culturally appropriate, accessible and informal environment.

Topics presented were as follows:

  • Smoking cessation
  • Women’s health
  • Travel health
  • Babies for parents and grandparents
  • Strong &healthy bone &vitamin D deficiency
  • Get the most from your GP
  • Diabetes
  • Healthy eating for children
  • Depression
  • Diet and cardiovascular health

Outputs/ Some Outcomes Achieved

  • In total 12 workshops were delivered, which were attended by 125 attendees (average of 10 participants/session
  • 4  ladies have had a smear  test after attending the women’s health workshop
  • 2  ladies  has done a mammogram  after attending the women’s health workshop
  • 7 Marven Practice patients have become AMF users and are using all activities such as the after school group, female only  exercise and carers monthly support meetings.
  • “I became aware of all problems that vitamin D deficiency caused and also now I am exposing my body to sun light as a part of my treatment plus taking supplement”

Contact details are
phayza.fudlalla@theabbeycentre.org.uk 
Phone: 020 7227 0647

[For more notes from this presentation please view the detailed PowerPoint slides by emailingvivien.davidhazy@bmehf.org.uk]


Item 5:

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) Awareness

Debora Alcayde, FGM/ Perineal Specialist Midwife, Chelsea & Westminster Hospital

Definition of FGM: ‘any procedure involving partial or total removal of the external female genitalia and/or other injury to the female genital organs whether for cultural, religious or other non-therapeutic reasons’ WHO 2000

Debora went on to describe some vocabulary when we talk about FGM

  • Infibulation (Type 111- most extreme type): Excision of external genitalia & suturing, small opening for urine and menstrual blood
  • De-infibulation:  Surgical procedure to open up closed vagina of type 3 FGM
  • Re- Infibulation: Re-suturing of type 3 FGM - llegal in the UK

Some facts about FGM:

  • 100 - 140 million girls and women worldwide estimated to have undergone FGM
  • 2-3 million girls and women subjected every year
  • Country of origin the biggest risk factor

28 countries across Africa practice FGM (please refer to map on PowerPoint slides) Also Middle East, Northern Iraq, Asia.

Type 3 FGM (the most sever kind) is practiced in Somalia, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Sudan, Mali, Egypt, Kenya, some parts of Nigeria.

London has substantial populations from FGM practising countries. In 2007 estimated that nearly 66,000 women with FGM living in England/Wales

In the UK the practice of FGM is illegal and it is illegal to take a British national outside the country to perform FGM on her.

FGM is considered child abuse.

There are many myths around FGM. Despite many beliefs FGM is not a religious practice  - there is no evidence from any religious writing that FGM should be practiced. It is a cultural practice that pre-dates most religions.

West London’s African Women’s Service is a community FGM clinic linked to Charing Cross Hospital where de-infibulations can be carried out. and Gynecologists are present twice a month.

Women can be referred by their GP or they can self refer.

At booking appointments for pregnant women all women from FGM practicing countries should be asked the relevant questions so they can be referred if they need it to the FGM clinic.

[For more detailed notes of this presentation you may view the  PowerPoint slides to be found here]

 Q&A

Question: Is this practice still going on today?

Answer: Yes

Question: Has anyone ever been prosecuted in the UK for FGM?

Answer No, but in other countries yes – France and Sweden.

 


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» London’s democracy needs you – join the #NoVoteNoVoice campaign

2024 is a huge year for democracy with elections in London, the UK and across the world - Londoners need you! With the Mayor of London and London Assembly elections on 2nd May 2024 fast approaching, we need your help to reach as many eligible Londoners as possible.

» FREE African Yoga sessions at Jubilee Community Sports Centre

Access to Yoga is series of 18 sessions taking place at the NEW Jubilee Community Sports Centre on Lancefield Street W10. The sessions will be an introduction to African Yoga and will take place on Thursday evenings. Yoga is well renowned for its benefits to health and wellbeing.

» Kensington & Chelsea Fraud Newsletter (December 2023)

The K&C Fraud newsletter contains information and figures of fraud cases in the borough including useful information about how to protect yourself against fraud crimes.

» Young Westminster Foundation January Newsletter (2024)

Please see the latest newsletter from Young Westminster Foundation with several funding opportunities including: Helping Hands Community Fund, Paul Hamyn Foundatiom Youth Fund, National Lottery Community Fund, Sports England small grants programme, and Berkley Foundation Fund for organisations working with young people who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

» New lung cancer screening roll out to detect cancer sooner (June 2023)

A national targeted lung cancer screening programme designed to catch cancer sooner or prevent it altogether has been announced by the Prime Minister and Secretary of State for Health and Social Care. Each year the programme - which will cost £270 million annually once fully implemented - is expected to detect cancer in as many as 9,000 people, deliver almost one million scans and provide treatment earlier.

» Active Westminster Network Funding application windows 2024

From the Monday 5th February 2024, ActiveWestminster Network partners are invited to submit a proposal for funding support of up to £1000 to support new or upscaling of a health and wellbeing physical activity community project. The submission deadline is Sunday 3rd March 2024 at midnight.

» Invitation to participate in an interview for research study developing an inclusive health and care research system with Black African Diaspora Communities in the UK

Are you: a community leader, or faith leader of Black communities?; a healthcare professional with experience of inviting individuals to health and care research studies?; a health and care researcher? research delivery staff?; a member of an ethics committee, or regulatory agency such as the HRA/MHRA?; a funder of health and care research, or make decisions about funding?; a policymaker? If yes to one of these, would you like to share your views about the inclusion and participation of Black communities in health and social care?

» NEW! Peer Support Cafe at Church st Library - Tuesdays from 9th Jan - 18th June 2024

We are delighted to announce our new Peer support Cafe that takes place on Tuesdays (initial sessions 11 - 12pm) at Church street library. The café will encourage the community sharing of valuable information, advice and guidance, provided by experts, supported by WCC registered interpreter/translator (Arabic, Amharic). It is intended as a safe place to share concerns, seek advice, meet friends, make friends and escape loneliness.

» Kensington & Chelsea Fraud Newsletter (November 2023)

The K&C Fraud newsletter contains information and figures of fraud cases in the borough including useful information about how to protect yourself against fraud crimes.

» Say No to Abuse Leaflets: Supporting people to ‘stay safe’ in the Bi-borough (added 20.12.23)

These leaflets have been co-produced by our Safeguarding Ambassadors and include a variety of our video resources to help support everyone to understand a range of safeguarding topics, as well as information on what happens after you report a safeguarding concern.

» Young Westminster Foundation December Newsletter (2023)

Please see the latest newsletter from Young Westminster Foundation with several opportunities including: I have a voice - welcome to your vote week (opportunity for 12-18yr olds); Paddington Arts Office space for hire; St Giles and St George Trustee role; Partnership for Young London Survey; NSPCC E-Learning Safeguarding Children with SEND Training; and more.

» SAEB Safeguarding Ambassadors Bulletin - December 2023

Please see the latest newsletter from Safeguarding Adults Executive Board's Safeguarding Ambassadors. Inside you will find information about National Safeguarding Awareness Week 2023 including a link to the SAEB Learning Programme: Self-Neglect webinar, PLUS a 7 Minute Briefing: What makes a good safeguarding referral.

» Patient involvement opportunities from NIHR/ Imperial College London

Please see upcoming patient involvement opportunities from the Patient Experience Centre newsletter of Imperial College London. Opportunities include: effects of early life respiratory infections (seeking parents/ carers of 0-18s), oppoortunity for young people who have taken part in clinical trials, and opportunity for young people who are interested in health research.

» Fairer Communities - Join your local area panel!

Are you passionate about improving your local area? Why not join your local area panel and have your say on what community projects are delivered in your local area. Work alongside other panel members to provide feedback on how we design our consultations. Share your ideas on how we can improve on engagement events for the programme. Commission local service provides and assess funding applications.

» Virtual peer support group for Black & Brown grievers

Black and Brown Good Grief is a peer to peer support meeting and safe space for black and brown grievers. Black and Brown Good Grief allows a person to grieve acknowledging the nuances of their heritage and culture while still being a person grieving someone. Black and Brown Good Grief was started by black and brown attendees and continues to be run and hosted this way..

» London Inspire Programme

The London Inspire programme is a ground-breaking programme developed to raise awareness and promote targeted health interventions aimed at reducing the staggering health inequalities faced by black people in London. Inspire was developed to foster partnership and collaboration opportunities for voluntary and community sector organisations to deliver health interventions, while also amplifying the voice of the Black community to create whole systems change.

» Cost of Living Support - Directory of Services December

Please see the latest update to the Cost of Living Directory of Services for December for RBKC residents.

» Free after school programmes at Grand Junction

Grand Junction are hosting several free after school programmes for children and young people - these are: Junction Juniors - drama workshop for age 7-11; Young Actors - acting and drama workshops for age 11-17; and Green Kids Club - a weekly workshop learning about environmentalism, nature and making art.

» Endometriosis leaflets in multiple languages

Endometriosis UK have newly translated support and symptoms leaflets. These leaflets are now available in Punjabi Shahmukhi, Punjabi Gurmukhi, Urdu, Polish, Scottish Gaelic, Cantonese, and Mandarin Chinese. The symptoms leaflet shares the main endometriosis symptoms, what endometriosis is and how Endometriosis UK provides support.

» Jubilee Sports Centre - book a space!

There is still availability to book space at the new improved Jubilee Community Sports Centre with priority being given to those clubs and organisations that are looking to provide opportunities to support the local community. The address of the venue is: Lancefield Street, London, W10 4NW

» Westminster Special Schools Online Training Calendar

Please see the training calendar from Westminster Special Schools for supporting children with additional needs. Trainings includ: Practical Sensory Strategies; Fostering Emotion Regulation; Practical strategies for handwriting; Navigating mealtimes with sensory challenges; and more.

» 'Stay with Us' Suicide Prevention Campaign Launch - info and resources

For those who were unable to attend the Kensington and Chelsea and Westminster 'Stay with Us' Suicide Prevention Campaign Launch please see the collated essential information and resources we have put together.

» Young Westminster Foundation November Newsletter (2023)

Please see the latest newsletter from Young Westminster Foundation including funding news: HELPING HANDS COMMUNITY FUND NOW OPEN and WESTMINSTER BRIGHTER FUTURES FUND; also YWF YOUTH WORKER FORUM WINTER EVENT on 6th November and YOUNG WESTMINSTER FOUNDATION JOB VACANCY as HELPING HANDS PROGRAMME OFFICER.

» North West London Health Equity Summit info share from the day

On Tuesday 24 October 2023, more than 200 people from across NW London gathered in St Pauls, Hammersmith for the first health equity summit for the area. One year on from the launch of the region’s inequality strategy, it was a chance to reflect on what had been achieved and discuss the challenges ahead. You can now see all the presentation and details of the day updated to the NHS NWL website.

» Workshops to improve breast screening information - 30th Nov or 12th Dec

Do you want to help improve breast cancer screening information and invitations? We are looking for 6 people to join two different workshops. We encourage people from underserved populations including but not limited to ethnic minority groups e.g., Asian, Black African or Caribbean, Arab, Mixed ethnicity and those from a disadvantaged background to apply.

» National Lottery Awards for All is changing! (posted 15.11.2023)

National Lottery Awards For All, is changing! You will now be able to: Apply for funding between £300 and £20,000 to support your project, an increase from the previous £10,000 per year; Get your project funded for up to two years rather than one. These changes mean that we have doubled the amount you can apply for and how long we’ll fund your project.

» Public steering group opportunity - STATIN project (apply by 24.11.2023)

As part of a study looking at developing an intervention to support patients who have been prescribed statins, we are looking for public partners to join our team who are prescribed statins or who have been prescribed statins in the past and are currently living in London. Even if (or especially if) you do not take your statins as prescribed, we would still be interested in hearing from you.

» Mentoring Programme for Young People With MH Needs

Are you a young person from a minority background experiencing mental health challenges? Or do you know, or work, with someone who is? Our free e-mentoring programme is here to help! Unlock your potential and achieve your educational and employment dreams with our free 12-week e-mentoring programme.

» Age UK K&C & Age UK Westminster Digital Inclusion Project (added 03.11.2023)

The Kensington & Chelsea and Westminster (KCW) Social Isolation pilot supports and enhances existing Older Adult Mental Health services provided by CNWL by providing targeted outreach support to vulnerable elderly people including those living alone who are known to be more likely to experience social isolation.

» Exciting New Group for the Spanish & Portuguese Community!

Come and join us every Friday from 10am - 12pm at Stockwell Partk Community Centre. In this space we will talk about our health, wellbeing, benefits, access to local services, how to obtain individual help, while also having the chance to make new friends!

» Community Living Well service

Community Living Well is an emotional wellbeing support service for anyone aged 16 and over, and who is registered with a GP in Kensington, Chelsea, Queen’s Park or Paddington. We can help to support your mental health and wellbeing.

» Support and Guidance During Current Events in Israel and Palestine

We are aware that ongoing, shocking events in Israel and Palestine have led to heightened tensions and emotional distress within our communities and want to remind you that Westminster’s Prevent team are available should you require our assistance; we are able to provide support and guidance for anyone who may be impacted by the current situation. If you or someone you know is feeling distressed or overwhelmed due to the recent events, there are resources and support available to help you navigate through these difficult times.

» Vacancies at Thrive Tribe - Healthier You (NDPP) (apply by 09.10.2023)

Thrive Tribe have been selected to deliver the National Diabetes Prevention Programme (NDPP) in London and now we have lots of opportunities to join our team! We have vacancies for Health Coaches, Senior Health Coaches, and Healthier You Partnerships Managers.

» Build your own Community Website in 7 weeks

This training from Superhighways will bring together a small group of people from 8 to 10 micro charities and community organisations to build their own website, using the free community website builder Voice Online Communities. The training will run weekly online, 10am to 12pm weekly, starting Wednesday 25 October 2023.

» Mosaic Community Trust's current services and activities (29.10.23)

Mosaic Community Trust's Mothers Support Network offers a range of activities in the form of Drop in sessions, workshops run by professionals, opportunities to voice concerns, free therapeutic massage and more. Mosaic also run a community wellbeing hub at the Portman centre and Connected communities social hub which is for women living in Church street area only.

» Free Funding bid support

NEW OFFER OF FREE SUPPORT – fundraising strategy and bid writing help available now! Concentrated help from one of a panel of external fundraisers whose direct skills and expertise will be offered to Westminster VCS organisations (including CICs) for free.

» Free Birth Preparation Classes with Neighbourhood Doulas

From Wednesday 6th September 2023 (10.30 -12.30) Neighbourhood Doulas will be providing their 6-week course and information around birth preparation, knowing your rights and options, mindfulness, decision making, confident parenting and more. Available to North Kensington residents.

» North London Forensic Collaborative Small Grant Opportunity

North London Forensic Collaborative (NLFC) has recently launched a new small grant programme for Voluntary Community Faith and Social Enterprise organisations based in North London. This is open to organisations who currently work with individuals accessing forensic inpatient or community services, or organisations that are delivering health and wellbeing initiatives in local communities that with additional investment, could extend this offer to individuals accessing forensic services.

» English Speaking Clubs & IT Drop-In Sessions in Westminster Libararies

There are a number of English Speaking/ conversation classes running on different days in libraries across Westminster including throughout the Summer. There are also IT classes and number of other classes available.

» Muslim Women's Fertility Support Group (Fertility UK)

Fertility Network UK is a national charity that offers free advice, support, information and understanding for those facing fertility challenges. We have local fertility groups, as well as a huge range of free specialist UK-wide groups. We have now started a Muslim Women's Fertility support group.

» Pressures on our emergency services in this hot weather

Our A&Es are extremely busy with waits of up to 11 hours. We are seeing many health issues related to the current warm weather – please do share the link below which gives advice on looking after yourself in warm weather, especially if you have asthma or hayfever. It also provides information on where to go if you need help so we can keep A&E for life threatening emergencies. The leaflet is also available in a number of different languages.

» Triple P Teen Programme from Total Family Coaching

Raise happy, confdent teenagers. Manage behaviour and expectations so everyone enjoys life more. Set family routines and rules that everyone follows. Get along well with your teens and argue less. Balance work and family with less stress. 6 week online programme from Total Family Coaching.

» Family Forever Programme from Total Family Coaching

Family Forever is a programme designed to support families with complex need, delivering weekly sessions to address underlying issues such as poor mental health, bereavement, and/ or parenting difficulties. We provide adaptable and holistc family support and parentng advice including practcal assistance to improve household relatonships.

» Vodafone offer to registered charities

Apply for free mobile connectivity to support your charity. If you're a charity that needs support for digital inclusion programmes, you can apply for free Vodafone SIMs, each loaded with 40GB data a month for six months, plus unlimited calls and texts. You can use these however you like - for example, to provide connectivity to your service users or deliver training to people in need. We distribute SIMs through charities and cannot distribute SIMs to individuals.

» Neighbourhood Doulas - Free Doula Support in the Community

Neighbourhood Doulas provide free doula support for those who have no birth partner, and one or more of the following: Perinatal / historical mental health, from a racially marginalised community, and/or speaks English as a second language. Our focus is on prevention and wellbeing as we support women and birthing people who are at risk of harm due to racism, isolation, and digital poverty, which leads to disconnection from healthcare networks.

» Digital resources from Kooth and Quell online mental health support

Quell and Kooth are online digital support services for adults and young people suffering mental health difficulties and have a number of useful resources. guides, and videos that you can access via the links provided.

» Volunteer opportunities at Family Friends

Familty Friends offers befirending services to support disadvantaged families living in K&C, Westminster, H&F and Brent. They are currently looking for volunteers for their 2 befirending services - Family befriending which involves whole family support; and Big Buddies where volunteers support a young person aged 10 - 18 years. Commitment for either of the roles is a few hours weekly or fortnightly over a period of 6 - 12 months.

» How to capture and share learning from your project

Depending on what’s involved, the process for gathering useful learning from your project can get called ‘research’, ‘evaluation’ or ‘reflection’, for example. Whatever you call it, the basic steps for gathering learning that’s useful to you are the same. Take a look at the National Lottery Community Fund page for their top tips!

» Pro-bono legal support!

Herbert Smith Freehills are offering pro-bono legal support to race equality charities, social enterprises and not-for-profit organisations.This includes: Grants; trading and commercial contracts; Structuring and governance Employment and incentive; Tax; Charity law and regulatory compliance.

» The Chinese Welfare Trust Admiral Nurse Clinic

The Chinese Welfare Trust Admiral Nurse Clinic is available to the carers and families of people with dementia who are of Chinese or Southeast Asian origin. The Admiral Nurse takes the time to truly listen to a family's situation and suggest methods to deal with symptoms and coping strategies for the challenges dementia can bring.

» Bi Borough VCS Health and Wellbeing Strategy

This Strategy has been developed over a period of months through a collaborative process with the voluntary and community sector and colleagues from across the statutory sector/NHS. It presents a number of case studies from the VCS that illustrate its main goals and offers a set of clear recommended actions.

» WCC Grant Funding opportunities information page

Please see the Westminster City Council landing page for all upcoming council grant funding opportunities for the VCS.

» Safeguarding training for BME groups

This course has been developed to provide attendees with an awareness of what adult safeguarding is as set out under the provisions of the Care Act 2014 and support staff to identify signs and indicators of abuse and neglect and to understand the referral pathway to raise a safeguarding concern.

» What's in the Community resource page

What's in the Community Resource page collects information / flyers about services and activities and support resources available in or to RBKC residents divided in sections such as Massages/ Acupuncture, Food, Warm hubs, Cost of living support, Debt, benefits, and housing advice, Education and training, and much more.

» New Dementia Adviser for Westminster

We are pleased to introduce you to the new Dementia Adviser for Westminster, Skia Fentiman. She will be offering advice and support for those living with dementia in Westminster and also coordinates events such as the free Memory Cafes. The next one is coming up on 30th November.

» EMBARRASSED by Steve McQueen - A short film

Here is Steve McQueen's EMBARRASSED - a short film created to help raise awareness of prostate cancer within the black community and featuring Idris Elba CBE, Chiwetel Ejiofor CBE, Michael Ward, and Morgan Freeman.. The message is that if you are a black man aged over 45 you should ask your GP for a PSA test. Prostate cancer is generally easy to treat (without chemotherapy) and survivable if caught reasonably early.

» Report of Joint Committee on Human Rights: Black people, racism, and human rights

Please download and see the House of Commons/ House of Lords Joint Committee on Human Rights report: Black people, racism, and human rights - including formal minutes relating to the report.

» Free online contraception - 16+

Residents of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea and Westminster City Council can now access free contraception online. All you need to do is register on the website, you will directed to the contraception page where you will find all methods available these include; Emergency Hormonal Contraception, Progesterone only pill and the Combined only pill.

» Kooth - FREE online support for young people

Kooth is an online counselling and emotional well-being platform for children and young people, accessible through mobile, tablet and desktop and free at the point of use.

» Mother's Support Group

Westminster Befriend a Family runs a Mother’s Support Group at Derry Hall on the Church Street Estate, between 10am and 12pm every Wednesday. It’s a place for mums and mums to be to meet up, have a (free!) cup of tea or coffee and enjoy some cake and a chat.

» March 2019 Quarterly Meeting Notes

Topics: Hammersmith & Fulham CCG's Financial Recovery Plans - request for feedback; Westminster and RBKC Councils' Dementia Strategy - request for local community input; Iraqi Association presentation; World Foods Carbs and Cals book (specifically targeted at BAME communities) Update from Diabetes Transformation team.

» December 2018 Quarterly Meeting Notes

Topics: Request for feedback on NHS 111 service; Information about Latent TB and raising awareness; request for feedback on Primary and Urgent Care services in H&F; Volunteer Centre K&C - working with BME organisations

» ADKC Disability Connect project

The Disability Connect project is for socially isolated disabled people (with a physical, sensory or hidden impairment) who need or would like some encouragement and support to get out and about doing activities of interest to them.

» September 2018 Quarterly Meeting Notes

Topics: Health Help Now App, GP Extended Hours, FAWA (French African Welfare Association), Central London Youth Development Trust cooking Sessions with children, Mosaic Community Trust programmes with Local Women in Church Street

» Sexual Health London - Free Home STI Testing Kit

Sexual Health London have commissioned an online sexual health testing website. It provides sexual health testing via post kit - very useful for young people and vulnerable groups.

» Kooth.com Free online support and wellbeing 365 days per year

Kooth.com is a professional mental health and wellbeing service, commissioned to Kensington, Chelsea, Hammersmith, Fulham and Westminster FREE to use for 11-19 year olds.

» June 2018 Quarterly Meeting Notes

Topics: Creating a new dietary resource for BAME communities with Diabetes and H&F Outcomes Framework, Update on the equalities framework & GP Extended Hours

» March 2018 Quarterly Meeting Notes

Theme: Integrated Care - My Care My Way and Engagement work done around Integrated Care Outcomes Framework

» December 2017 Quarterly Meeting Notes

Theme: Tackling Obesity in BME communities

» September 2017 Quarterly Meetings Notes

Theme: Improving the Health and Wellbeing of disadvantaged communities in Hammersmith & Fulham

» Professional Interpreters: Language is Everything

A supplier of professional interpreters – face-to-face, by telephone and written translations. We offer 136 different languages and dialects for face-to-face assignments in London and more by telephone. We have an office in North Westminster and are already supplying to Local Authority frontline teams, NHS Trusts and national third sector organisations working within the Tri-borough meaning that our interpreters know the area and are already on the ground, daily.

» June 2017 Quarterly Meeting notes

Theme: Habits and Addictions in BME communities

» The Alcohol Service

Change, grow, live is a social care and health charity that works with individuals who want to change negative patterns of behaviour and achieve positive and life-affirming goals.

» March 2017 Quarterly Meeting notes

THEME:Getting involved in improving services

» December 2016 Quarterly Meeting Notes

THEME: Migration, Homelessness and Mental Health

» July 20th Diabetes Open Meeting Notes

THEME: Diabetes and Black Minority Ethnic Communities

» May 2016 Quarterly Meeting notes

THEME: Domestic Abuse among BME Communities. This meeting explored the issue of Domestic Abuse from many different angles such as the barriers around housing, the particular difficulties for people with no recourse to public funds and the psychological issues for young people who have been exploited...

» March 2016 Quarterly Meeting notes

THEME: Stigma. This meeting's theme was about stigma and how it contributes to inequalities and stops people accessing services. We heard presentations discussing stigma in many different contexts from mental health and sexual health to the stigma surrounding disabilities, gender transitioning and dying.

» Healthy Relationships:Healthy Baby Programme

Pregnancy is a time of hope but can also bring challenges and strains. Healthy Relationships:Healthy Baby is a new programme from a local charity, especially for expectant mums and dads living in Westminster. Our dedicated team will work with you and your family so you can bring an end to hurtful behavior...

» December 2015 Quarterly Meeting notes

Theme: Young People's Health & Wellbeing. This was a great meeting to attend to hear about projects in the voluntary sector and ask our NHS commissioners and providers some searching questions. Presentations included: Westminster Mind, Spectra, Al Badja and the Westminster council...

» The Talking Talk Shop at The Dalgarno Trust, Wednesdays 11am - 12.30pm

The Talking Talk Shop is now open at The Dalgarno Trust on Wednesdays from 11am - 12.30pm. We work with people from all backgrounds with varying disabilities, who are on waiting list or finished counselling but wish to continue talking in a confidential, relaxed and safe environment...

» September 2015 Quarterly Meeting Notes

THEME: DEMENTIA - This was a great event to attend to find out more about how services for people with Dementia have been planned and delivered and question the people in charge of doing so. It was also a great opportunity to find out more about how to support people with Dementia and what services are available in the NHS and the third sector including some specialist services for BME communities.

» SMART Projects Stop Smoking Service

SMART Projects is launching a Stop Smoking Service, funded by the Kensington & Chelsea Social Council and in partnership with the Kick-it Stop Smoking Service. SMART will be providing Stop smoking advice on a one to one basis and workshops for people who would like to find out more...

» Al-Aman (DVIP) Arabic Speaking service

DVIP’s Al-aman service has continued to receive funding from London Councils to support women from Arabic speaking communities who have been affected by gender based violence, forced marriage, female genital mutilation and honour based violence...

» Different Voices’ Directory of Services in Westminster and Kensington & Chelsea

A directory of services was produced by the Different Voices Group at The Advocacy Project. It is a user involvement group that focuses on improving inpatient services and tackling the stigma attached to mental health. All the recommendations in the booklet are based on the service users’ own experiences of having used those services...

» Royal Trinity Hospice launches new dementia service in Kensington and Chelsea

Royal Trinity Hospice has launched a new service to support people with dementia and their carers living in Kensington and Chelsea, tackling recognised inequalities in access to palliative and end of life care.Funded by West London CCG, Trinity’s specialist Community Dementia Nurse will support people...

» Conversational English for beginners (for over 50s)

Brush up on your spoken, written and grammatical English to become a more confident speaker! For people aged 50 and over. TUESDAYs - 10.00am – 12.00pm. £3.00 per class @ New Horizons, Guinness Trust Estate, Cadogan Street, London, SW3 2PF...

» Healthier Homes Project

The Healthier Homes Project is a Public Health funded project to assist in reducing hospital admissions, GP visits and winter deaths caused by residents living in homes that are too cold, damp or are in dangerous conditions that put their health at risk.The project works as a referral service...

» ANGELOU Referrals

Angelou is a partnership of 9 organisations offering a shared service across Hammersmith & Fulham, Kensington & Chelsea, and Westminster supporting women and girls who are experiencing violence and abuse.

» June 2015 Quarterly Meeting notes

THEME: SUPPORTING PEOPLE APPROACHING THE END OF THEIR LIVES. This meeting was about how to best support people who are approaching the end of their lives. Public health are conducting a Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (JSNA) about end of life care and would like to hear from you about how you feel services work currently and any gaps that there might be...

» March 2015 Quarterly Meeting notes

THEME: WOMEN AND CHILDREN'S HEALTH & WELLBEING

» Services

» Activities/Courses

» December 2014 Quarterly Meeting notes

THEME: WHOLE SYSTEMS INTEGRATED CARE

» September 2014 Quarterly Meeting notes

THEME: FGM

» New Young Women's Domestic Violence project for Arabic speakers

Al-Hasaniya Moroccan's Women's Centre have a new project for young women of Arabic backgrounds who have or are experiencing domestic violence. The service is aimed at young women aged between 16 and 25 years old who live in London...

» June 2014 Quarterly Meeting notes

THEME: MENTAL WELLBEING

» Counselling Services for female survivors of domestic and sexual abuse (Westminster and K&C)

Please be aware of the free Therapeutic Services provided by Solace Women’s Aid in Kensington & Chelsea and Westminster. These include:1to1 counselling for female survivors of domestic violence age 14 + (Ascent). 1to1 counselling for female survivors of sexual violence including child sexual abuse (aged 14+)...

» New Domestic Abuse service for Arabic speaking Women

Al-Hasaniya Moroccan Women’s Centre has recently been successful in securing funding for a new project to support young, vulnerable women of Arabic speaking backgrounds who are or have experienced domestic abuse. Our service is aimed at young women aged between 16 and 25 years old...

» Kick-It FREE Stop Smoking Support service for local communities

The Free Stop Smoking Support sessions include specialist behavioural support by certified Stop Smoking Practitioners, which will improve the client’s motivation as well as help building up capacities and strategies to stay smoke-free...

» Westminster Connect - Peer support group

The peer support is for people aged 18 to 60 who have a physical disability, hearing or sight impairments and those with long term health conditions. Westminster Connect also co-ordinates peer support for Deaf people...

» April 2014 Quarterly Meeting notes

THEME: Unscheduled care - the utilisation of A and E and Urgent care services by BME communities

» Housing and resettlement, Welfare benefits and debt advice (Westminster)

The Bayswater Families Centre, in conjunction with CAB, Homestart and Z2K are holding Drop-in Advice sessions covering: Housing Advice and Assistance; Resettlement Advice and Assistance; Welfare benefits Advice and Assistance; Debt Advice and Assistance...

» Zumba at Portobello Green Fitness Club

Fridays 2 - 3pm, Portobello Green Fitness Club. Price £2.10. It's fun, It's fitness, It's ZUMBA!...

» IKWRO - Self Confidence Support Group for Women

Iranian and Kurdish Women’s Rights Organisation (IKWRO) is registered charity that provides confidential support, advice and advocacy and outreach to women and girls of Middle Eastern origin. We work to help women and girls who are facing gender based violence...

» November 2013 Quarterly Meeting notes

THEME: URGENT CARE – ‘IS THE NHS MEETING THE NEEDS OF BME COMMUNITIES?’

» September 2013 Quarterly Meeting notes

Theme: 'HAVE YOUR SAY ON IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF SERVICES AND THE PATIENT EXPERIENCE'

» K&C Mind HARP Group (Hoarding, Acquiring Recovery Planning)

The HARP Support Group is a new, monthly, facilitated self-help programme, for people who are motivated to develop strategies and actions to manage and modify compulsive hoarding behaviour...

» British Red Cross Refugees and Befriending Project

The British Red Cross runs four 'Refugees and Befriending Projects' (R'n'B) for young unaccompanied refugees and asylum seekers aged 14-21. Our peer-led befriending projects are facilitated by peer-befrienders and adult volunteers...

» December 2012 Quarterly Meeting notes

THEME: IMPROVING OUR MENTAL WELLBEING

» September 2012 Quarterly Meeting notes

THEME: IMPROVING NHS COMMUNITY SERVICES – KEEPING PEOPLE OUT OF HOSPITAL

» June 2012 Quarterly Meeting notes

» July 2013 Quarterly Meeting notes

» Free Days Out for Carers in Kensington and Chelsea

We also offer free training courses, complimentary therapies, other free events, talks and social meet-ups - booking essential...

» March 2011 Quarterly Meeting notes

» June 2011 Quarterly Meeting notes

» September 2011 Quarterly Meeting notes

» December 2011 Quarterly Meeting notes

» March 2012 Quarterly Meeting notes

Date & Time: 7th March 12, 10am – 1pm, Venue: The Abbey Centre, 34 Great Smith Street, SW1P 3BU, Theme: Men’s Health & Wellbeing

» March 2013 Quarterly Meeting notes

Theme: Women’s Health & Wellbeing Date: 6th March 2013 Venue: Lighthouse West Lodon

» Domestic abuse and Sexual violence Information about Helpline services in your area

Please see below some information about domestic and sexual violence helplines that are funded by London Councils and available in your area...

» Psychological Therapies in languages other than English

Please note that all NHS psychological therapy services are obliged to provide an interpreter for people who are not fluent English speakers. This includes counselling services offered by GP practices as well as IAPT or other mental health services offered by CNWL or CLCH...

» Personalisation Project at the Chinese Mental Health Association

The Befriending Service at the Chinese Mental Health Association is running a pilot Personalisation project for ethnic Chinese sufferers of mental health. Personalisation is about giving people with needs, choice and control over their care, with support and resources provided by their local authority...

» Fit for Work Service in Kensington & Chelsea now expanding to Westminster and Hammermith & Fulham

Fit for Work Service in Kensington & Chelsea now expanding to Westminster and Hammermith & Fulham

» Maternity Action Advice Line

Maternity Action’s Advice Line offers free confidential telephone support. We will listen to you and try to understand all the issues you are facing. We will then provide you with information that is relevant to you and your situation...

» Breathe Easy Support Group

DO YOU LIVE IN PIMLICO AND SUFFER FROM A BREATHING PROBLEM? BREATHE EASY PADDINGTON is your Westminster patient support group, for anyone affected by a lung condition. We offer mutual support, information...

» Healthworks

HEALTHWORKS√ offers a range of services to help the residents of Kensington and Chelsea, Hammersmith and Fulham, Westminster and surrounding boroughs

» Rape Crisis London

Rape Crisis London has four centres that offer help, information and support to women and girls who have experienced sexual violence of any kind, at any time of their lives...

» Substance misuse services - NEW three borough service

Turning Point and Blenheim have been commissioned to provide the new substance misuse service in Westminser, RBKC, and Hammersmith & Fulham. This service is named the Recovery & Wellbeing network and will transform the way that drug and alcohol services are provided locally...

» Health Centre for walk-in (unregistered) patients

The Halfpenny Steps Health Centre provides health services for registered and walk-in patients. It is staffed with a team of GPs, nurses and other healthcare professionals to deliver a high quality, continuous service...

» Public Health Training Service - RBKC

The Royal Borough can help your business. We offer award-winning training on Food Safety and Health and Safety. We also offer Environmental Principles training, Personal Licence Holders training and Customer Service Training...

» Dementia Adviser Service in Westminster

The Westminster Dementia Adviser service provides advice, information and guidance to those who have received a diagnosis of dementia, as well as their families and supporters. As well as working in partnership with NHS...

» Housing Factsheet Library

Some housing factsheets on key housing issues. The fact sheets provide a very basic summary of the issue, the possible actions you can take, and who to contact for further information...

» Get Active! - Affordable activities for all abilities and ages at the Beethoven Centre

See details below for affordable activities for all abilities and ages available at the Beethoven Centre...

» North London Rape Crisis Service

North London Rape Crisis offers free, confidential counselling, advocacy and holistic therapies to women aged 14 and over who live, work or study in Islington, Camden, Westminster, Barnet, Enfield, Kensington and Chelsea and Haringey...

» Helpline for Maternity Services

The maternity helpline provides direct access to clinical support and advice to women and their families, irrespective of whether you are a patient of Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, a visitor to the area or simply require information and support.

» Women's Wellbeing, Patient Empowerment and Mental Health & Wellbeing projects at Mosaic Community Trust

The Mosaic Community Trust’s Women’s Well-Being Project seeks to empower women who are socially disadvantaged. The Patient Empowerment and Engagement project aims to raise awareness in the local community on the availability and effective use primary care health services...

» NHS videos aimed at newly arrived migrants in various languages

Here are a series of short films on how to use the NHS aimed at newly arrived migrants produced by the Black Health Agency. The film is available in English, Arabic, Cantonese, Farsi/Dari, French, Kurdish, Mandarin, Polish, Somali, Sylheti and Urdu...

» Fit-for-Life - Free 8 week weight loss programme

This FREE eight week group behaviour change programme is designed to help the patients to lose weight, get fitter and make more informed choices about your diet and lifestyle...

» Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) - Westminster service

STRESSED, ANXIOUS, DEPRESSED? If you are finding it difficult to cope with feelings of anxiety or depression, we can offer quick and easy access to help and support...

» HELP Counselling - low cost short & long term counselling service

Based in Portobello Road, Notting Hill Gate, London, HELP Counselling Centre provides short & long-term counselling based on an affordable, sliding scale for people who need support in negotiating a crisis as well as for those who wish to consider their life patterns and choices...

» FGM (Female Genital Mutilation) Service

West London African Women's service - Community support and information...

» LIVING WELL - Wellbeing services

Living Well offers a wide range of high-quality health related services aimed at providing people with the skills they need to get the most out of life. Services include HIV service, Youth service and Community support service...

» Healthier Life for You blog

Healthier LIfe 4 You is a community organisation not for profit with charitable aims. We aim to promote Health and Wellbeing to local people in the community (Families, Children & Young people). As well as running Health workshops, we use Dance, Art & Craft and Leisure activities to enable service users to achieve emotional and Physical wellbeing...

» South Westminster Centre for Health

Provides community and specialist dental services, district nursing, nutrition and dietetics, diabetes and podiatry (foot health) services, Speech and language therapy for children...

» Independent Domestic Violence Advisory Service at ADVANCE

ADVANCE is a specialist domestic violence crisis intervention service. We support women who are assessed as being high or very high risk of continued domestic and sexual abuse and those at risk of being killed...

» GO4mental health

A website/ directory for mental health service users in Westminster...

» Deaf Hope Services

Deaf Hope is a new specialist domestic abuse service for Deaf women and children, and the first service of its kind in the UK. We have been established around 18 months and our current funding is...

» Counselling Directory - search for a counsellor or psychotherapist near you

Counselling Directory was set up as a free, confidential service to encourage those in distress to seek help. Visitors can read about different areas of distress, view useful articles written by counsellors and refine their...

» Help for your Family with Home-Start (Westminster)

We support ANY family in Westminster who needs us, providing there is at least 1 child under 5. Rich or poor, settled or transient.Our trained volunteers help to give encouragement and support to change the pattern of troubled lives...

» Westminster Wellbeing - Free NHS service promoting Health and Wellbeing

Westminster Wellbeing is a free NHS service promoting health and wellbeing within communities and organisations in Westminster. We provide a range of services which include training and workshops for community organisations...

» Jobs/Volunteering