Connecting with you: Connect to Work in Enfield
3 Months ago by Jason Armstrong
News
The Working Well Trust wants to say a massive thank you to the National Lottery Fund for their support of our Upskill over 55s services. Due to this funding, our over 50s Coordinator, Angela, has been able to continue working with older, isolated residents across Tower Hamlets who may be facing mental health challenges.
The Trust, alongside the Communities Keeping Well initiative in Tower Hamlets have continued to support older and retired residents to set up and develop community groups to address key concerns around wellbeing and isolation.
One of these groups has gone from strength to strength and with support from Angela! They have run their own events supporting other charities such as Macmillan’s and Barts Premature Baby Unit. This summer, they organised trips to Southend; a fantastic opportunity to bring together people from across the borough, from all backgrounds, to enjoy each other’s company and support other charities in the community with their amazing knitting skills.
Case Study: Bangladeshis Social Group
The Bangladeshis Social Group is another great example of the work being done thanks to the Lottery Fund’s support.
The group consists of 15 women who come together in sewing and clothing alteration worships. When talking about these sessions, Angela says, “through this work, I have built strong relationships and trust with the women, which has allowed me to support them with wider issues, including mental health and employment.”
The over 55s service allows vulnerable older communities to come together in one space where they can socialise but also work directly with other staff at the Trust who support people with mental health needs to access work placements and courses.
As a Bangladeshi woman herself, our Employment Specialist was able to help with translation. Angela says, “her involvement made a significant different. The women felt more comfortable communicating and became more open about discussing mental health and asking for support. They were also able to learn about employment, training and other opportunities.”
The Trust has made a real impact in helping these women feel more confident in talking about their mental health and accessing support. When reflecting on the group’s success, Angela states “this experience has shown me how important trust, cultural understanding and communication are when supporting people.”
