Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
Key Takeaways
- Horsham District Wellbeing unveiled an impressive suite of free support programmes for residents and healthcare professionals.
- Services span physical, mental, and lifestyle health, from NHS Health Checks to stress-management coaching.
- Wellbeing advisors provide tailored guidance, creating a *single front door* for community health support.
- Partnership pathways were presented, enabling GPs and other professionals to refer patients quickly and seamlessly.
- The event highlighted early successes, including higher quit-smoking rates and increased uptake of health checks.
Table of contents
Overview of Horsham District Wellbeing
At the heart of public health in Horsham, Horsham District Wellbeing empowers residents to make informed choices about their health. With a prevention-first mindset, the service champions physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing while tackling local health inequalities. Its vision is simple yet powerful: *a healthier, happier Horsham for all*.
Core aims include:
- Encouraging healthier lifestyles across every age group
- Reducing health inequalities through early intervention
- Boosting overall community wellbeing with accessible, evidence-based programmes
Showcased Services
From brisk Wellbeing Walks to comprehensive NHS Health Checks, the newly showcased services cover the full spectrum of health improvement:
- NHS Health Checks: Free 30-minute assessments spotting risks for heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.
- Get Active Courses: Fun, inclusive programmes motivating residents of all fitness levels.
- Weight Management: Group workshops and one-to-one sessions delivering proven results.
- Smoking Cessation: Personalised quit plans with ongoing advisor support.
- Alcohol Advice: Confidential counselling aimed at reducing harmful drinking habits.
- Healthy Eating Campaigns: Interactive cook-alongs and nutrition seminars.
- Pre-Diabetes Support: Early intervention to halt progression to type 2 diabetes.
- Mental Wellbeing Workshops: Resilience, mindfulness, and anxiety-management sessions.
- Swim4Health & other Physical Activity Schemes: Accessible options making exercise *enjoyable rather than a chore*.
Role of Wellbeing Advisors
“Think of us as personal health sat-navs,” one advisor quipped during the showcase. These trained professionals conduct initial assessments, craft tailored action plans, and guide residents toward the most suitable support. Their empathetic, one-to-one approach removes barriers, ensuring quick and sensitive connections with the right services.
Event Highlights
- Live demos of digital screening tools powering NHS Health Checks
- Interactive mini weight-management classes sparking friendly competition
- Panel talks featuring local GPs, health educators, and wellbeing advisors
- Inspirational testimonials – *“I’ve lost over two stone and rediscovered my energy,”* shared one thrilled resident
- Networking zone for healthcare professionals to forge new referral links
Partnership & Referral Opportunities
Healthcare professionals discovered streamlined referral pathways that integrate with existing patient-record systems. CPD-accredited training on social prescribing and motivational interviewing was also announced, opening doors for deeper collaboration. Enquiries can be made through the West Sussex Wellbeing website or directly at the Swan Walk Wellbeing Hub.
Community Benefits
Early outcomes demonstrate tangible wins for Horsham:
- 32% increase in NHS Health Check uptake over the past year
- Record-breaking smoking quit rates – up 18% since 2022
- Hundreds of residents joining weekly Wellbeing Walks, boosting social cohesion as well as fitness
Participants frequently report improved confidence, healthier routines, and stronger mental resilience – clear proof that local, accessible interventions work.
Conclusion
The showcase underlined Horsham’s unwavering commitment to community health. By delivering holistic, free-to-access services and forging robust professional partnerships, Horsham District Wellbeing is setting a shining example for local public health. Residents and healthcare providers alike are encouraged to explore, refer, and engage with the ever-growing menu of support on offer.
FAQs
Who can access Horsham District Wellbeing services?
Most programmes are free for anyone living, working, or registered with a GP in the Horsham district.
How do I book an NHS Health Check?
Appointments can be arranged online via the West Sussex Wellbeing website or by calling the Wellbeing Hub in Swan Walk.
Are the weight-management courses suitable for all ages?
Yes. Separate adult and youth groups ensure content is age-appropriate and engaging.
Can healthcare professionals refer patients directly?
Absolutely. A streamlined e-referral system enables swift connections to the desired programme.
Where can I find more information?
Visit the Horsham District Wellbeing site or pop into the Swan Walk Hub for face-to-face advice.