Supporting better health and wellbeing.

Our five-year partnership with SHAPE Linc Line continues to support hundreds of Customers through its National Befriending Service. By providing weekly or fortnightly calls, the service reduces loneliness and builds resilience for vulnerable or isolated individuals. 

Beyond emotional support, the project ensures the Customer has a support network and access to essentials like food and medication. The impact is life-changing; for example, one Customer was encouraged to join a local social club and, despite initial nerves, now attends every Friday. 

Recognising hoarding as a critical mental health issue, the 'Inside Out' project helps Colleagues understand its links to trauma and neurodiversity, enabling them to respond compassionately and consistently. The project supports Customers with regular visits, practical decluttering, and access to specialist local partners. 

The service upskills our People through regular panel meetings supported by a specialist psychologist. Following its June 2025 expansion into Scotland, we have granted an additional £25,000 to the project this year to further its reach. 

In addition to the activities provided through our Leisure centres, we fund health and wellbeing projects through our Places Foundation Impact Fund. 

We funded free swim sessions for deaf or hearing-impaired women, providing a safe, inclusive space to improve both physical and mental wellbeing. 

Additionally, our Community Roadshow Vans are delivering outreach services in Sandwell and Sheffield. Led by qualified instructors, these sessions bring exercise directly to Community venues in areas with high inactivity levels. By removing barriers to participation, we are not only increasing physical activity but also empowering residents with the knowledge to lead healthier lifestyles and fostering a stronger sense of local wellbeing.