Building Community Capacity Public Health Event – Promoting our voluntary sector through the 5 ways to wellbeing

On Wednesday 25th May some of our favourite voluntary groups joined us down at University of Derby’s Kedleston Road Campus where, together, we ran an interactive session on the 5 ways to wellbeing. 

The 5 ways to wellbeing is a scientifically backed framework guiding people to improved mental health through 5 simple techniques: 1) Connecting with others; 2) Being physically active; 3) Learning new skills; 4) Giving to others and 5) taking notice (being mindful). 

180 students took part in the showcase where they learned about the critical role the voluntary sector plays in the nations mental health and wellbeing.  After an introductory lecture by our own Jennifer Raschbauer the students attended workshops from 5 voluntary sector groups from Chesterfield and surrounding areas. 

Organisations taking part each ran four interactive workshops, exploring with the students how they used the 5 ways to wellbeing to transform the lives of the people they work with.  Participating organisations included Asian Association of Chesterfield, Chesterfield FC Community Trust, Derbyshire Wildlife Trust, STAND TO and Volunteer Centre Chesterfield. 

Faith Vargas was one of the University of Derby lecturers taking part:

'It was a thought provoking and engaging day. It gave our students a real insight into the role of the voluntary sector and established a firm foundation for future learning and engagement with community groups. A huge thank you to all who participated!'