More local people set to benefit from expanded Community Health Champions programme

More people in York will get help to find health services, support groups and wellbeing advice close to home thanks to a £14,000 funding boost from the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority.

The funding will enable City of York Council to recruit and train a new team of Community Health Champions in neighbourhoods including Westfield, Clifton and Hull Road.

Community Health Champions are local volunteers who help people access information, services and support in their community. By sharing trusted advice and connecting people with local opportunities, they can help residents get support earlier and stay healthier for longer.

The new funding will support the recruitment of 30 additional champions, alongside training and support for local projects.

The programme is designed to reach people who may not always engage with traditional health campaigns or services, helping to break down barriers and ensure residents know where to turn for help when they need it.

Councillor Lucy Steels-Walshaw, Executive Member for Health, Wellbeing and Adult Social Care at City of York Council, said:

“Where people live has a significant influence on their health, and many residents in York continue to face barriers to accessing the support they need. Strengthening community‑based approaches is an important part of addressing this.

“Community Health Champions are local residents who support their neighbours by having trusted conversations, sharing reliable information, and helping people find services early, before health issues become more serious.

“Expanding this programme allows us to recruit and train more champions in the areas where they are needed most, helping more residents stay well for longer, feel connected, and lead healthier, happier lives.”

Champions receive training and ongoing support before sharing health messages and signposting residents to services covering issues such as mental wellbeing, healthy lifestyles, stopping smoking and managing long-term health conditions.

The programme also creates a direct link between communities and services, helping organisations better understand local concerns and respond to changing needs.

Making a difference in communities

York’s existing Community Health Champions are already leading a range of successful initiatives that promote health, wellbeing and community connection.

Champions Sarah and Susan [pictured] recently worked alongside York City FC Foundation to support the Changing Rooms Project, a sports kit and equipment recycling initiative which redistributes donated items to people and families who need them most.

During a community event at St Joseph’s Church in Clifton, the volunteers helped collect, organise and distribute donated sports clothing and equipment to local residents, building links with community groups and helping reduce barriers to physical activity.

The project is one of several community-led initiatives supported by Health Champions across the city. Other examples include:

• Let’s Walk York, a welcoming sight-guided walking group for adults with learning disabilities, sight loss and visual impairments, helping participants stay active while reducing social isolation.
• Strictly Fun Dancing, inclusive music and dance sessions designed to make movement enjoyable, accessible and social for people of all ages and abilities.
• Community wellbeing activities and information-sharing events that connect residents with local support, services and opportunities.

These projects demonstrate how Community Health Champions use their local knowledge, networks and enthusiasm to improve wellbeing and strengthen communities from the ground up.

David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, said: “Sport changed my life and saved my life. I want more people to have the same opportunities to lead more active lives, improving their physical and mental health, which is why I am delighted that we are supporting the Health Champions programme with this funding.

“By investing in local initiatives like this, we’re ensuring that people of all ages and abilities in York have the opportunity to lead more active lives.

“Movement, activity, and sport play a huge role in improving mental health and tackling social isolation.

“This is a fantastic example of how we are backing ambition at a grassroots level to make York and North Yorkshire a thriving place for everyone.”

Over the next 12 months, the expanded programme will focus on recruiting 30 new champions and strengthening networks in communities where health inequalities remain highest.

People interested in becoming a Community Health Champion will receive free training and ongoing support, giving them the opportunity to make a positive difference in their neighbourhood while developing new skills and confidence.

Find out more or sign up to volunteer as a Community Health Champion

 

Photo Caption: Champions Sarah and Susan recently worked alongside York City FC Foundation to support the Changing Rooms Project, a sports kit and equipment recycling initiative which redistributes donated items to people and families who need them most.