At Peter Bedford Housing Association we work alongside Hackney and Islington residents who have faced long term inclusion from society due to homelessness, mental health problems, learning difficulties or multiple needs.
Through a combination of providing housing, support, work schemes, learning and social and community activities we aim to help people take control of their lives and shape a brighter future.
Health by Stealth is a three year initiative which combines raising awareness of the importance of a healthy lifestyle in a fun and practical way. Our activities are predominantly run by a team of volunteers who have been delivering sessions including Healthy Eating, Walking and Dance.
We aim to support and motivate our volunteers and encourage participants to contribute to and lead wherever possible. On a recent field trip one of the participants proved to be an excellent map reader and guided us all safely home.
Another participant, in a cooking group, talked volunteers through kitchen safety and food hygiene – knowledge gained through her work within Peter Bedford canteens.
“I’m learning new things in cooking class. We’ve made shepherd’s pie, fishcakes and kebabs.” Barbara Morgan
“My favourite walk was when we played rounders in Highbury Fields.” Nosson Synders
“I really like the cooking class. We make a big meal and eat with the gardening club as well.” Elaine King
During the past year one of our proudest achievements has been the development of a huge sense of team spirit and community at one of our projects. The existing Gardening club have had the satisfaction of being able to supply vegetables and fruit for the Cooking club to use. The resulting weekly lunch is enjoyed by everyone involved.
A community garden was recently transformed by a kitchen refurbishment. The re-launch brought together volunteers, tenants, participants and staff who enjoyed a sumptuous home cooked lunch.
Other activities in the past year have included a residential trip to the New Forest, a ‘welcome to all’ Women’s Day event, a day trip to the seaside….with more events and activities planned for the coming year it looks as if the Healthy Living fun just goes on and on………
“My tenant is really enjoying cooking classes. She says it gives her a chance to try new food and it is helping her confidence by getting out of the house and meeting new people.” Tammi Henderson – Senior Supported Housing Worker, Peter Bedford.
