Some communities face much greater inequalities than others – and we’re working to identify and then support these communities using a ‘place-based approach’.
Why Berwick?
Communities in Berwick like a lot of places across Northumberland and Tyne & Wear face multiple challenges including, high unemployment rates, high levels of physical inactivity, poor mental health, economic disadvantage and rural isolation exacerbated by COVID-19.
Our work in Berwick aims to address the physical and psychological aspects of wellbeing and also equip individuals with practical skills to navigate life’s challenges, including those related to unemployment, debt, substance misuse and poor physical health. Our holistic approach working closely with partners and stakeholders contributes to building stronger and more resilient communities enhancing residents’ overall quality of life.
Our place based approach allows us to identify and address issues impacting the lives of people in Berwick and wider community. By undertaking community engagement and working with partners to tackle physical inactivity we strive to improve physical and mental health outcomes and empower the residents of Berwick to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Supporting men in Berwick
Our Key Worker Jaki Duffy provides a 1-2-1 holistic support service for men aged 16-30.
She works with partners in the town to address the inequalities that are faced by young men, supported by the Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioners’ Violence Reduction Unit (VRU).
Jaki’s work aims to address mental wellbeing before individuals reach crisis point. Through providing a range of activities aimed at boosting mental and physical health, improving employment prospects, building confidence and promoting engagement with wider services in Berwick, Jaki enables the young men she works with to thrive in the community.
Helping people in Berwick get more active
Diana Smith is our Community Development Worker in Berwick – supporting, and enhancing community provision, with the aim of getting more people active.
Diana works closely with partners to connect the community with provision in Berwick. Through her work Diana advocates for better inclusivity for people of all ages and backgrounds who face barriers to accessing physical activity in order to tackle health inequalities which often effect our rural communities.
Contact
To find out more about our work to support communities in Berwick, contact our key workers Jaki Duffy and Diana Smith.
