Henfield has embarked on an inspiring journey in 2025 with the launch of Henfield’s Year of Care and Wellbeing. This exciting initiative, led by Henfield Parish Council and Henfield Community Partnership, brings together volunteers, local organisations, and passionate individuals to create a thriving environment of care, support and wellbeing.
The initiative began with an inaugural meeting in January, where an incredible turnout showcased the community’s enthusiasm and support for this project. Attendees shared their perspectives on what wellbeing means to them and the discussion highlighted key themes aligning with The Five Ways to Wellbeing.
The most prominent area identified was Take Notice, with participants emphasising spirituality, reducing fear, appreciating small pleasures, prayer, mindfulness, feeling good about oneself, mental and emotional comfort, happiness, stress management, meditation, time organisation, and achieving a sense of peace.
The second major theme was Connect, with attendees highlighting the importance of friendship, social belonging, avoiding isolation, feeling supported, being part of an integrated community, engagement with others and a sense of belonging.
This valuable insight has helped shape the workshops and activities planned for the year, ensuring that they reflect the needs and interests of the Henfield community.
The theme for the year is simple yet powerful – encouraging people to focus on their own wellbeing while fostering a sense of community care. Through a series of workshops, activities and events, the initiative aims to provide opportunities for residents to enhance their physical, mental and emotional health.
The ‘Five Ways to Wellbeing’ is a set of evidence-based actions designed to improve overall wellbeing:
• Connect – Building relationships with others to create a sense of belonging and support.
• Be Active – Engaging in physical activities that boost mood and overall health.
• Take Notice – Being present in the moment, appreciating the world around you.
• Keep Learning – Trying new experiences and gaining knowledge to build confidence and resilience.
• Give – Helping others, whether through volunteering, small acts of kindness, or community support.
By incorporating these principles into everyday life, we can all work towards a healthier, happier and more connected community.
However, this is an evolving project that relies on community engagement to bring these activities to life. We are actively seeking practitioners, volunteers and like-minded individuals to help us shape and deliver these wellbeing initiatives. Whether you have expertise in health, mindfulness, fitness, arts or simply a passion for helping others, your involvement can make a real difference.
Two dedicated local volunteers, Gabrielle Gardner from Shine for Life CIC and Alexandra Nevatt, Social Prescriber at the Henfield Medical Centre, have stepped forward to champion wellbeing workshops. These sessions will serve as a welcoming space where people can come together, share experiences and explore different ways to improve their overall quality of life. “This is about creating a community that supports each other,” says Gabrielle. “Through these workshops, we hope to provide a nurturing space where people can connect, learn and grow together.” Alexandra adds, “Wellbeing isn’t just about physical health; it’s about feeling supported, valued and empowered. We want to encourage people to take small steps towards improving their lives while also helping others in their community.”
The Year of Care and Wellbeing is a call to action for like-minded individuals who are passionate about self-care and community support. Whether it’s through attending workshops, volunteering, or simply spreading awareness, everyone in Henfield is invited to play a part in making 2025 a year of positive change.
UPCOMING EVENTS
· Easter Family & Youth Event - Be Active & Keep Learning: Saturday, 19th April, 10am – 1pm at Henfield Youth Club. A fun-filled event encouraging activity and learning for all ages.
· Sound Bath Taster Session: If you missed Maggie’s Sound Bath at our February event, Henfield Leisure Centre has kindly offered space for another session on Wednesday, 9th April, 7-8pm. To book your place, email mason. eloisa@gmail.com
· Regular Wellbeing Meet-Ups: Alternating between Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings, these meet-ups will offer a mix of talks, wellbeing experiences, and hands- on activities. The next Wednesday evening session will be on 21st May, 6:30-8:30pm, with Saturday morning sessions running between 10am-1pm.
If you would like to be included in our email updates, find out more, or offer your skills and time to support the initiative, email us at henfieldyearofwellbeing@gmail.com.
Please also look out for the other Care & Wellbeing initiatives being offered in the village by our different community groups. All support is welcomed! The list of activities and clubs already available in the village is outstanding.
As Henfield prepares for a year dedicated to wellbeing, this initiative serves as a reminder that when a community comes together, meaningful and lasting change can happen. Let’s make 2025 a year to remember - one of care, connection and collective wellbeing.
Alexandra Nevatt and Gabrielle Gardner
