29 September 2023
Alton Health and Wellbeing Partnership – 20th September 2023
View the full presentation here
Over 20 delegates joined us at the Cardiac Rehabilitation Centre, Chawton Park Road, Alton for our annual in-person networking meeting.
We had a lively marketplace with representatives from the following organisations showcasing their services and support:
· Cardiac Rehabilitation
· I Can Connect
· Andover Mind Carer Support
· Support and Dementia Advice
· Blue Lamp
· A31 Social Prescribers
· The Environment Centre
· Community First
Speakers
There were presentations which stimulated questions and debate, a number of delegates exchanged email addresses, how to refer and telephone numbers. We were pleased to welcome local councillors including Mayor Ben Hamlin from Alton Town Council and representatives from East Hants District Council.
Gary Davis, Community First, described how he supports local organisations as a Voluntary Sector Consultant covering East Hampshire. Gary provides advice on setting up a VCSE organisation, all aspects of funding, governance and anything else! You don’t need to be a member of Community First to access advice however we would very much like you to join us to access the full range of services we offer from payroll to DB checking, transport, training, a new venues directory and much more.
Find out more about the benefits of being a Community First Member
Theresa Pratt, CEO, Blue Lamp Trust, explained about the Bobby scheme, safety and security checks and the equipment that is available for vulnerable adults.
Annabel Clinton, Woolmer Timebank, Community First described the groups and activities members enjoy, and exactly what timebanking is, and explained that although based in Bordon people can join from a broader area including Alton.
Sarah Quarterman, Cardiac Rehab Centre CEO, who kindly agreed to host the Alton and Wellbeing Partnership meeting, described the range of courses, facilities, classes and activities provided at the Centre, including support for people with cancer. Exercise is key.
Member updates
We heard from Lisa Hillan who represented the Kings Arms Youth Project as well as Alton Rotary and a range of other organisations.
The Friendship Café, new to Alton, Mick and Josie Neeve were able to let members know of their aims and aspirations.
Liz Murray, Partnerships Manager with Valley Leisure described the I Can Connect on-line programme which is proving very popular.
Mark from Love4Life explained how they empower young people aged 11-18 to build confidence and make positive choices in their health, relationships and education.
Hazel Agombar from the Environment Centre (tEC) told delegates about their Healthy Homes and Hitting the Cold Spots Schemes.
Thoughts from the day
“Immensely helpful, informative, inspiring, this is so important”
“A very useful event where we have met a lot of new people from organisations that will be able to help our patients’ wellbeing – A31 Social Prescribers”
“Really good to be able to socially network in the Alton area, it is very much needed”
“Very useful networking event, great to meet organisations that offer such diverse offerings. More time to chat next time please”
“Really, really useful event! I exchanged details with 4 organisations who are now going to refer to our service. Thank you very much”
“This event enables joined up working and avoids duplication and waste of resources. Absolutely brilliant!”
Please contact Jane Bray – healthforums@cfirst.org.uk – to register if you are not a member and would like to attend &/or be kept up-to-date.