Healthy Weight

2022 Case studies

Partner: May Logan   Active client: Y	Client no: 5876 Sex: male Age: 42 Postcode: L21 7QB
Client background
Barry has a number of health issues caused by a ‘whipple procedure’ – removed pancreas, gallbladder, spleen due to benign tumours, leaving Barry diabetic overnight. He also has angina. This all caused Barrys mental health to suffer dramatically and also meant he could not return to work which resulted in his life completely changing.
Support given
I met with Barry when was he was at his lowest, there was a lot going on physically/mentally, he felt he couldn’t cope and felt his life had fell apart. He had no confidence, no self-esteem and couldn’t see a way out of the darkness he was in.   On our first meeting Barry was really nervous at first but soon relaxed. I created a safe space for Barry to open up and feel comfortable to talk to me, I just listened. I praised him on seeking help and pointed out this is the most important step. He told me everything about his current lifestyle, his mindset, his family life, what he enjoys and what’s happened in the past that has led to this referral. I was very empathetic towards Barry and made him feel safe to open up, and that is ok to have emotions and feelings. This is something he struggled with, he doesn’t open up to people as he feels he is a burden. I explained sometimes it’s easier to talk to someone who is not emotionally involved, and I will be that person when he needs it. Barry appreciated this and said he feels comfortable to do so. I give him reassurance that things are going to change, it’s going to take a lot of work but we will do this together and he is not on his own. I could see a little spark in Barry, I give him a hug which he has never forgot and made him feel he wasn’t on his own. We focussed on making himself a priority in his own life, changing his perspective and outlook by focussing on what he was in control of, becoming aware of his own thoughts processes/behaviours. I set Barry small but achievable goals every week starting by journaling his feelings and being honest with himself, becoming aware of his thoughts and how to deal with them in a positive way. Barry’s confidence and self-esteem had been shattered through everything that had happened to him. We started to build on that, once he started to see its ok to have feelings and emotions, things started to change for Barry, and he started to feel safe about letting his emotions out. I asked Barry to keep a daily journal and create time for himself to check in with how he felt, what was good in his day and what wasn’t so good. This really served Barry well and slowly started to change the structure of his day.   We started to develop his morning routine, planning his day, going out for walks on his own to sort his thoughts out, read self-help books, planning some time each day for himself and listen to what he needs that day in that moment (me time).  Over the weeks a lot started to change for Barry, and he was slowly starting to be himself again, he started smiling and laughing in our sessions and felt a lot lighter. I invited Barry on a group walk to the beach I had planned, he was unsure, but he gave it a go and loved it. It was really nice to see him socialising with people he had never met and told me he loved it. He started going the beach on his own with a coffee and listening to music which helped him feel good. I encouraged him to start a walking group with St Leonards which he did! We focussed on prioritising Barry in his own life, I asked Barry to start keeping a gratitude journal to reflect on the positives and what he is in control of, rather than things that are out of his control. This had a positive impact on the way Barry looked at his life We explored ways he could release anger in a healthy way before it gets too much and learning to recognise it before it does. I give Barry journal prompts to allow him to see different perspectives on situations. I challenged Barry to step outside his comfort zone in manageable ways, spending time on his own, setting goals for himself and making future plans. One week I set Barry a goal to try a guided meditation, something he has never done. He never gets a full nights sleep due to all the physical health issues he has. The week after he couldn’t wait to tell me the powerful impact it has on him, so much so that he passed this on to his wife and actually got a full nights sleep. Barry now also uses meditation when he feels agitated or when he feels himself overthinking and needs to come back to the present moment. I asked Barry to start exploring hobbies or projects that he can go to when he needs to focus on something and encouraged his to tap into creativity. He started an art project and can spend hours on it, he loves painting and creating, something he has never explored. Barry also started baking; all of these things are his tools he uses when he needs to come back into the present moment. He loves gardening and has started to do all the jobs he’s never got round to doing. He has also started helping neighbours with jobs as it makes him happy helping others.   I have attended all Barrys occupational capability meetings with him for support which have been extremely emotional for him to come to terms that he cannot return to work, and it’s been very hard for him to accept. However, all the work he has put in over the last few months has made it easier for him to come to terms due to his different perspective on life.   I am very grateful to have witnessed the change in Barry and be a part of his journey, I couldn’t be more proud of him.
Outcomes
This has been a very gradual process and it’s been very hard for Barry to adapt to life. All the inner work and small steps he has done over the last few months has had a huge positive impact on his life and he is a completely different person from when we first met. When Barry first come to me he felt his life had fallen apart, but now Barry has changed his outlook and sees this as a fresh new start, a new chapter. He is more positive, engaging and is opening up to new learning and activities.  He has recently applied for an allotment and is looking forward to starting a new project for himself.   When I first met Barry, I asked him to set some goals for the next few months which he did and has actioned every one of them. He told me he has set himself a particular goal and will let me know when the time is right. A few weeks ago, Barry showed me what he had wrote “If Hollie ever needed someone to speak to a group about my experience and the help I have received and how it has changed my life, I would really love to do something like this to help others”.   Please see attached comments from client.

Case study ‘TD’

• Male, aged 76 years
• Accessed Living Well Sefton partner, Feelgood Factory on doctor’s advice
• Completed the LWS Lifestyle Assessment and took steps to make changes

Background

• TD attended Feelgood Factory to enquire about Clinical Pilates
• It was recommended he attended by his GP due to an ongoing back injury
• He had also seen the advertisements for LWS Lifestyle Assessments

Support given

TD first came to the Feelgood Factory to enquire about the clinical Pilates class, as his Doctor had recommended he started to attend the classes regularly. He had seen the advert for the LWS Lifestyle assessments and decided to book on as he felt other aspects of his health needed to be addressed also.

At the first meeting with the team he was supported through completing the assessment and was in good physical health, other than his injury, but felt his main priority was his mental wellbeing and his diet.  The team helped him to look at goals and he agreed to continue to attend Pilates for his bad back and attend the ‘Think Differently, Cope Differently’ (TDCD) course.

He then completed the WEMWBS and discussed ways to increase his score in the next two weeks with the team.

TD continued to attend Pilates and felt quite positive as it reduced his pain and made him feel like he was doing something to get better.

At the second meeting TD reported feeling better and being more positive. He was due to attend the ‘TDCD’ course the following week, so decided to concentrate on improving his diet to make it healthier and balanced.  He agreed a new goal – that TD would try to follow the ‘Eat Well Plate’ to ensure he was eating less salt and sugar; he recorded what he ate each week and it was discussed at the next and following meetings.

TD continued to engage with the service for 6 weeks and feels he has achieved quite a lot.  He now exercises regularly, going for long walks and continues to attend Pilates. 

“I have followed the healthy eating advice, have lost weight and feel much better.”

Partner: N/A   Active client: N	Sex: Male Age: 57 Postcode: L37
Client background
Including reason for accessing service (mental health, being active, stopping smoking, debt issues, eating healthy, making friends, etc)
Client came into the service asking for support around low level mental health and weight management. Client attended TDCD course and as a result of attending the former expressed an interest in attending Weigh Forward.
Support given
Client attended Weigh Forward course in the summer of 2022.Client was not at the time quite ready to fully engage with follow up calls but did manage to attend all of the course sessions saying that they appreciated the sessions.Encouraged the client with various resources including information on ultra-processed foods, the concept of food as the key for good physical health, benefits of cooking from scratch plus the benefits of hydration and increased activity – this was all well received by the client who was thankful for the information
Outcomes
Received a Christmas card from client saying:“Once able to put all the information into action, I have, so far, lost 15 kg – weighing in at 88.9 kg this morning. So, thank you again. Your course has positive long-term benefits too!”

Sex: Male Age: 57 Postcode: L37
Partner: N/A   Active client: N
Client background
Client came into the service asking for support around low level mental health and weight management. Client attended TDCD course and as a result of attending the former expressed an interest in attending Weigh Forward.
Support given
Client attended Weigh Forward course in the summer of 2022.Client was not at the time quite ready to fully engage with follow up calls but did manage to attend all of the course sessions saying that they appreciated the sessions.Encouraged the client with various resources including information on ultra-processed foods, the concept of food as the key for good physical health, benefits of cooking from scratch plus the benefits of hydration and increased activity – this was all well received by the client who was thankful for the information
Outcomes
Received a Christmas card from client saying:“Once able to put all the information into action, I have, so far, lost 15 kg – weighing in at 88.9 kg this morning. So, thank you again. Your course has positive long-term benefits too!”

Case study for Q3                                                    : Date Nov 2022 Theme: Obesity
Partner: Feelgood Factory   Active client: Yes	Sex: Male Age: 37 Postcode: L4 5TX
Client background
Including reason for accessing service (mental health, being active, stopping smoking, debt issues, eating healthy, making friends, etc)
Stephen is a 37 year old taxi driver that contacted FGF after completing the Weigh Forward course at Active Sefton.
Support given
Type of support given to client (a brief outline of the help you gave your client. Eg, Fred was having difficulty with his social housing provider so I contacted them on numerous occasions to resolve his issue of repairs)
His main concern was embracing a healthier diet that mainly consisted of junk food and how he could address his weight. I introduced him to the Food Matters (Low fat cooking courses) and chatted to him about his current diet and discussed the obstacles that existed for him about making positive changes. He described himself as a fussy eater, however he agreed that avoiding foods that he perceived as unpalatable is not the same as eating and trying the foods. He readily agreed to try things he hadn’t tried before with an open mind.
Outcomes
Describe the outcomes of your support. What difference has it made to the client? How has their life been improved as a result of your help? Were they signposted on to another partner? Try to include a quote from the client by asking them what difference your support has made to them.
As promised Stephen tried all the dishes that he produced the results of which were mixed but overall positive. The most important thing he said was that he wasn’t frightened of trying new things and preparing food has given him so much confidence. He has started inviting friends and family round for dinner that he has made and is understandably delighted with this. He has also agreed to come along to Health Cooking course to increase his knowledge and skills and attend Walking Football with his free passes.

Case study for Q3                                                    : Date 11th January 2023 Theme: Obesity
Partner: Feelgood Factory   Active client: Yes	Sex: Female Age: 41 Postcode: L30
Client background
Lindsey is a 41 year old, part-time shop worker and mother of 3. She contacted FGF after seeing our Food Matters publicity on our website. She wanted to lose weight in order as part of a healthier lifestyle. She agreed to complete a UC and as part of her agreed goals, she joined and completed the Weigh Forward course at Active Sefton after which she attended the Cook and Eat Low Fat cooking classes. She also agreed to attend TDCD to address her anxiety and stress concerns.
Support given
Her main concern was weight loss and how it can be a factor to poor physical health and how she felt about herself. I introduced her to the programme, Food Matters, (Cook and Eat Low fat cooking course and Weigh Forward) and looked at any obstacles that existed for her about making positive changes. Whilst talking Lindsey often spoke about cooking for her now adult boys was her concern, however she agreed that their choices might not always be compatible with a healthier diet and, as adults, they can make their own choices around diet but it may be useful to discuss your plans to have a healthier diet. She agreed that this was a good idea. She also discussed how her anxiety and stress might be an obstacle and that she has a tendency to over think trivial things. I introduced the TDCD programme and how this might help her address her stress and anxiety. She readily agreed to attend the next course.
Outcomes
Lindsey completed the Weigh Forward course at NAC and found it most useful in identifying ways to make healthier choices. She finished the Cook and Eat sessions, tried dishes and ingredients that she had never tried before there was mixed reactions on occasion mainly when she reverted to how her boys probably would not eat the dish. Here she quickly checked herself realising that she was repeating an obstacle she had previously identified. Lindsey commented, “that the whole experience was brilliant. It was an eye opener and it was the first time she had an opportunity to look at her diet and her relationship with food in this much detail…” She has since joined Slimming World and is attending regular Line Dancing after finishing her 5-week free voucher incentive. She also would like to attend FGF new Food Matters Programme in May.   Lindsey, as promised, attended and finished TDCD. During a general catch up and chat she has attributed the programme to her taking on a new volunteering opportunity on her day off and “she has been able to address her over thinking by putting herself first now that her boys are older…”

Partner: May Logan     Active client: Y	Client no: 49936 Sex: M Age:65 Postcode: L20 3QL
Client background
Peter is 65 and has recently moved into a flat in Bootle. He lives alone and is in the process of divorcing his wife. He has moved from his family home in North Wales back to Liverpool where he originates from. Peter experienced severe mental health problems including social anxiety and depression after the breakdown of his marriage which impacted his work. He felt he had no other option than to take early retirement from his job as a manager responsible for many other staff. Peter felt moving closer to his sister would help with his mental health and isolation he experienced moving away from his family and friendship circle. As Peter was no longer working, he had to tighten his budget which resulted in him no longer attending sporting activities he once enjoyed such as golf. He also found making meals to be disheartening for just himself and began living on processed ready-made foods. Peter found that he began drinking more alcohol to try and escape the reality of his new life. These habits have all resulted in him gaining extra weight and retreating from social interactions.
Support given
Peter first joined us on the May Logan health walk in June. After chatting with him about his situation, peter asked if I would support him with his weight management. Peter agreed to have weekly face to face appointments with me at May Logan centre before the health walk. He began filling out a weekly food diary sheet and stepping on the scales to monitor his weight. Peter felt really disappointed he had allowed himself to gain weight and was keen to bring it down to a healthy number. At 14st 10Ib he knew this was adding to his lack of confidence and breathlessness. His BMI was over 30. We set many goals for Peter to try and achieve over the coming weeks. He loved the walking group and wanted to do a daily walk when possible. I gave him the active Sefton healthy walks booklet which gave Peter the opportunity to attend a new walk within Sefton every day. I talked him through the importance of looking after his health by eating fresh produce again and when possible, cooking for himself (also to save anything left over). This had a positive impact on Peters finances. Instead of eating out most of the week (a habit he had adopted living alone) he now found making food at home helped save his money too. Peter found the weekly food diary sheets helpful to fill out and helped him cut back on his alcohol intake. We made lots of good healthier swops he was able to maintain and knowing he had a weekly weigh in really helped with his weight goals. Peter never really drank much water and thought he was hydrated enough by drinking tea/coffee. One of the swops he found easy was to begin drinking de-caff tea and cut out coffee.
Outcomes
Peter is now down to a much healthier weight of 13st 3Ib and a BMI of 28.5. His overall weight loss is 21Ib. He feels his weight loss has helped him regain his confidence back and due to his options, he is trying out different walking groups all over Sefton, he now has a very active social life again. Peter told me he has joined numerous local groups/events and is beginning to build new friendship along the way.  He feels his confidence is returning to where it once was before his separation, and he is again taking pride in his appearance.   He feels his diet is now much more varied with fruit and veg. He has begun cooking for himself again (something he hasn’t tried in years), drinking water each day, and socialising much more frequently. He told me he is beginning to make plans again for his life and is looking forward to his future. Something he never thought he would do again. Peter is happy to maintain his weight as it is now and is a regular on our walks. Peters quote ‘I feel like it was fate walking into the May Logan centre and enquiring about a walk, I never expected to receive one to one support from anyone and certainly didn’t think I could feel as well as I do again so soon, very grateful’.

Partner: May Logan   Active client: Y	Client no: 37526 Sex: M Age: 64 Postcode: L31 8EF
Client background
Phillip has been attending one to one healthy eating support since April.  He attended 6 sessions on a weekly basis and made exceptional progress. We have recently lengthened the gap between appointments to a month.   Phillip was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes several years ago and was prescribed medication. It’s a condition that runs in his family. He told me that when he was first diagnosed, he made some changes to his diet. However, he said that he didn’t maintain these changes because he believed that if he took his medication, what he was eating, didn’t matter.   Phillip became worried after a routine diabetes health check: despite taking his medication, his HbA1c test showed high average blood sugar levels for the previous few months. Phillip’s blood pressure was also high.  The diabetic nurse discussed the serious complications that could happen as a result of raised HbA1c levels and warned him that unless he changed his lifestyle it would be necessary to increase his medication and there was a strong possibility that he would need insulin in the future. This motivated him to take responsibility for managing his condition. Following this, he had expressed his concern at the Carers Centre and they referred him to May Logan for support.   A couple of weeks into the programme, Phillip had another diabetes health check, including another HbA1c test. As this test shows average blood sugars levels over the last few months, he knew his blood sugars would still be high. However, he was able to tell his diabetic nurse that he had joined this programme and had started to make changes to his diet and increase his levels of physical activity. The diabetic nurse decided to hold off increasing his medication to see whether changing his lifestyle would positively impact his blood sugar levels. Phillip said she was enthusiastic about the potential of this intervention to show the importance of lifestyle in the management of type 2 diabetes. Because Phillip’s blood sugars were high at the start of the programme, if they fell, it would be as a result of the lifestyle changes he had made. However, she did caution that the effect of lifestyle changes may be less dramatic in people with a family history of type 2 diabetes. At the same time, she emphasised that regardless of whether his blood sugars fell, the lifestyle changes he was making were vital for reducing complications, including reducing the risk of heart disease, which is already raised in people with type 2 diabetes. This is a message I have continuously reinforced during the programme. Phillip is due another HbA1c test in July/Aug.
Support given
Phillip received weekly diabetes management support. The focus of this support is to Educate clients around the key healthy eating messages relating to the 5 main food groupsEncourage clients to eat a balanced, varied diet whilst limiting fatty, sugary and salty foods. Highlight the importance of physical activity in diabetes management and encourage clients to increase physical activity.Help clients to set one or two healthy eating/physical activity goals each weekMonitor progress, including weight loss if relevant Clients receive a weekly information pack with healthy eating tips, recipes and exercise ideas
Outcomes
When we reviewed his food and activity diary at the beginning of the programme, it showed his diet was very high in sugary foods and other refined carbs. He ate between 6 and 8 slices of white bread a day (with butter) for example, and at meals when he didn’t eat white bread, he ate white rice. He also ate no veg, though he did have 2 portions of fruit a day. He drank 4 coffees a day with a sweetener, and drank diet coke most days. Phillip’s diary also indicated a sedentary lifestyle. Phillip made many positive changes. Every week he achieved the goals he had set himself the previous week. He has… completely cut out diet coke and sweeteners in hot drinkscut out virtually all sugary foodsswapped to wholegrain bread and limits intake to 2 slices a daychooses other wholegrain carbs where possible e.g. brown riceadjusted portion sizes for carbs (and other foods) as recommendedincreased fruit and veg intake to 5 a dayswapped from semi-skimmed to skimmed milkswapped butter for olive oil-based spreadincreased the variety of protein foods eaten to include more eggs and oily fish twice a week (thereby reducing intake of meat)stopped adding salt during cookingsubstantially reduced the amount of salt added to food at the table and intends to stop adding it altogetherdevised his own physical activity programme which includes at least 45 minutes of aerobic exercise every day (walking or a Joe Wicks class), as well as strength exercises several times a week Benefits for Phillip Although Phillip was not visibly overweight (12st 8lb) and was not overly concerned about losing weight, he highlighted that he carried excess fat around his middle, which he knew to be a health risk for people with type 2 diabetes, so he was keen to get rid of this “flab”. Since starting the programme, Phillip has lost 6lb and has had to tighten his belt by 2 notches. He said his stomach is flatter and firmer and that he was pleased not to have lost the weight from places he didn’t need to lose it. This is partly due to the type of physical activity he chose.Phillip’s blood pressure is now within the ideal rangehis finger prick tests show his blood sugars to be within the ideal range and Phillip has reported that he “feels great”. He said he has lots of energy and is “sleeping better than ever”. He said his muscles feel stronger and his balance and flexibility have improved

Mental Health

2022 Case studies

Partner: Citizens Advice Sefton     Active client: Y	Client no:   Sex:  Male Age: 37 Postcode:
Client background
This client was referred to me by the Feelgood Factory. It had been suggested they would benefit from participating in the Think Differently Cope Differently program. This they agreed to and we commenced the sessions in February via zoom. The client was able to speak openly in regards the personal issues they were experiencing at that point and at here we were able to grasp specific areas of what we would work together on that could help them improve their Health and Well Being. When we commenced our sessions, the client was off work suffering from acute stress and anxiety issues. Their self confidence had gone and they were becoming withdrawn and uncomfortable mixing with others socially and professionally.
Support given
Then main areas within the TDCD program were identifying the benefits of the 5 Ways To Wellbeing and where they felt they themselves were either adhering to or areas they felt they needed to address and improve. They were able to identify the benefits of this and we were able to look at how they would go about making positive changes as well and targets that were achievable for them. Another key area was identifying positive and negative influences in their lives that provide a major impact on their wellbeing. In the case of negatives they were able to grasp the importance of taking control of their life again – thus improving their self confidence and ability to change their decision making for the better. As the sessions progressed I was able to get them to review their progress and identify areas they felt the program was relating to them personally in their own words. As the sessions ran, the client showed that the learning outcomes were being achieved and each session they were able to explain those improvements and it became clear they were benefiting from the sessions.
Outcomes
As the program drew to its conclusion, the weekly WEMWEBS questionnaire showed the significant improvements they were feeing. Their answers became more positive and hence their number rating changed. During our time working together, the client was in the process of having a job interview for a role that he felt would really help improve his current outlook. However, he was unsuccessful and when I was told this I feared this may take him a step back. However, they took a completely different approach to the news. In turn, they had been offered a different part time role which would tap into their creative talents and this really lifted t to the. The outcome is, they now have two part time roles that they have identified do not impact on their quality of life and stated their Work Life Balance was paramount their improved outlook on life. A telling statement made by them to me was that “Without doing this program I feel I would not have been able to act in this way and would have felt I had been rejected and fell backwards again. Here I was able to be very philosophical about the situation and for a change, took positives out of it instead of the negatives of old I would have felt”.    When we came to our final session, they stated that, in engaging with me throughout the program they felt that the best thing was “I had someone to guide me through each step and I felt I really had a positive mentor”.  They were clear that their health had much improved” and concluded that “My sessions were always positive and beneficial to me and my mental health “.   Since were finished the TDCD program the client has successfully returned to their job and also commenced in their secondary career. I will be still their to support them over the coming months in a periodic manner where we will have continued zoom chats on bi monthly occasions. They also know that if they did need me again for support to contact me.

Partner: Brighter Living Partnership   Active client: Yes	Sex: Female Age: 56 Postcode: PR9
Client background
Including reason for accessing service (mental health, being active, stopping smoking, debt issues, eating healthy, making friends, etc)
Client was referred to LWS through the SPLW service. Client was struggling with her mental health and coping with her adult daughters’ alcohol and drug dependency. This was leaving client feeling extremely low, and anxious. On our second meeting client was crying in the car park over something that happened recently.
Support given
Client was offered, and accepted, a place on the Think Differently: Cope differently course. When I met with client she said she hoped to learn some coping techniques and life strategies for managing better.
Outcomes
Client describes TDCD as having changed her life. She states “It has given me new skills in how to deal with my emotions”. Client also told me “other people have noticed a change in me and my mental health”. Client described an incident that happened last week when her daughter took some money out of the car. Client told me this would previously have resulted in her feeling anxious and angry, however since the course she felt calmer about this and would make sure she didn’t leave money in her car again so neither she, or her daughter, were “in that position again”. Client has recently set a new goal, which is to volunteer at the Cosy Café and starts in January.

Partner: N/A   Active client: Y	Client  43846 Age:72 Postcode: PR8
Client background
Client has  physical health issues and has had mental health issues. They initially joined as a result of attending the external chair based exercise class on a Wednesday. They heard about the craft group and joined as they felt isolated and would like to know more about other crafts.
Support given
Client started to attend the chair based exercises at the centre on a Wednesday morningClient saw that there was a craft group and felt isolated and felt that they would like to join a group to learn some new craft skills and meet others that were also interested in crafts Had conversation with client whilst doing the health questionnaire that they would like some help around healthy eating and healthy cookery Client has enrolled on a Weigh Forward course Client has complex family situation and has also  benefited from some emotional support around  building a healthier self esteem
Outcomes
Client has joined the craft group and continues to attend when they are well enoughThey report that they enjoy the sessions and the chance to talk to others Client has also been happy to pass on tips re cross stitch to interested crafters in the group when asked Client attended one group session of Weigh Forward but had issues with comprehension and low self esteem.Client also had difficulty following the session due to hearing issues.Arranged some one to one WF sessions to facilitate better understanding and chance to follow up re more questions if session not fully understood including recap of the first group sessionClient has appreciated chance to have a longer one to one session to better understand the Weigh Forward course material – client feels that their education was lacking at school and they have struggled in the past to understand. During the sessions I have acted to positively affirm the client to build their self esteem client has had few emotional resources (due to some very difficult beginnings) Client has asked for help to understand weights and measurements and terms used in the course. Client has also been doing more exercise/activity when they have been physically well enoughClient has indicated that they would like to attend some healthy cookery sessions in the future A word from the client:       Since coming to the community centre I have felt better. It has been good to come and chat to       others  in the craft group and I have tried some new crafts.  I have lost weight and my husband is       also starting to cut back on certain foods. I am also drinking  more water and eating more fruit       and vegetables and  eating less sugar.

Partner: BLP   Active client: Y	Client no: 47203 Sex: M Age: 41 Postcode: PR8 6XL
Please include a case study here, including as much information as possible around the support given to the person and the difference it has made to them, whether that is increased confidence, improved wellbeing, better mobility, renewed interest in old or new hobbies, reduction in medication, less visits to GP, making a meal from scratch etc.
Client background
Including reason for accessing service (mental health, being active, stopping smoking, debt issues, eating healthy, making friends, etc)
Client was referred to BLP from the Social Prescribing team. He has some health concerns at the moment, both physically and mentally and is looking for ways to be more active, and also to be more sociable and connect with his peers to help with his mental health and sense of belonging.
Support given
Type of support given to client (a brief outline of the help you gave your client. Eg, Fred was having difficulty with his social housing provider so I contacted them on numerous occasions to resolve his issue of repairs)
Client came into the community café to meet with me and do a universal consultation to identify the areas he would particularly like to work on and to set himself some goals to work towards.  He struggled a bit with identifying goals so we just set one and suggested we can work on that over the next 12 weeks. He was particularly interested ion the gardening and men’s shed as he likes crafting and making things, and being hands-on.  He also identified that he needs to eat better as he’s been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.
Outcomes
Describe the outcomes of your support. What difference has it made to the client? How has their life been improved as a result of your help? Were they signposted on to another partner? Try to include a quote from the client by asking them what difference your support has made to them.
Client has attended 2 cooking sessions and is keen to do more in 2023.  We discussed our Weigh Forward program but decided it would be best for him to seek specialist support from the nutritionist given his recent diagnosis. He has started attending the men’s shed, and we’ve also discussed him leading a craft-type session next year to show some of his woodwork engraving that he enjoys.

Case study Rose

• Woman, aged 64 years
• Accessed Living Well Sefton partner, May Logan of own accord after seeing a social media advert
• Attended several classes under the LWS umbrella

Background

• Rose attended the May Logan Centre of her own accord after her sister saw an advert on social media for the outdoor fitness class
• Rose had been in a very long relationship with a domestic violence situation
• She was then in an isolated situation when lockdown happened and wanted to improve her fitness, eat healthier and meet people

Support given

Rose has attended the outdoor fitness class ‘Not Boot Camp’ regularly since May 2022.  Her confidence grew and she is a very valued member of our class, as she was extremely supportive and encouraging to new members, very active in the class Whatsapp group and always giving a warm welcome to new people.

She had a few phone calls with the team away from class, completed a food diary and looked at a couple of small changes she could make to her diet.

Rose now has a Gym membership.  She went for the induction in a group and then attended with one of the other members of the fitness class a few times, before now attending the gym on her own.  She is enjoying her visits.

She said she has more self -confidence now.  She has lost weight, feels fitter is a lot more active and is eating healthier. She has also been out socially in the evening for the first time since leaving her husband with some of the ladies from the fitness class.

Active Sefton will contact Rose to see if they have any other services she might be interested in and they will contact her before the end of her free pass, with a possibility of an extension if it has been useful and helpful to her.

“I have benefited greatly in so many different areas. I have gained more confidence in meeting and talking to people. I now have better understanding of how exercise and a healthy lifestyle impacts on my health and well-being. I am much more active now during the week and my diet has improved since joining. I have much more energy and feel my life is moving away from what it was before (I was an evening couch potato that loved crisps and Kitkats watching tv). It’s not just an exercise class as you have helped me with meal ideas and nutrition. We have all become good friends and stay in touch with each other through the week. We encourage each other and are there to lift each other up. Your enthusiasm for an active lifestyle is contagious and you always make the sessions fun and interesting. I really look forward to coming along. Thank you also for all your care, advice, and empathy with other things that have been going on in my life. I am in a much better place now.”

“The support I received was excellent I am now more aware about the choices I make regarding food and I have increased the amount of exercise I take.”

Case study Maria Lee

• Woman, aged 61 years
• Accessed Living Well Sefton partner, May Logan, after a staff member engaged with her on an organised walk
• Attended several classes under the LWS umbrella

Background

• Maria Lee attended a health walk at The Leonards where staff from May Logan taught attendees to Nordic Walk
• Maria is out of work and her family highly depend on her
• When engaging with the staff it became apparent she was feeling low, stressed and was concerned about her drinking habits
• On the walk she showed signs of being interested in the ‘Think Differently, Cope Differently’ (TDCD) course

Support given

Maria came on the Think Differently Cope differently course at The Leonards, after attending a Health Walk at the same location, where she expressed concerns for her mental and physical health. On the course she had a goal of exercising more and eating more healthily.

Maria joined the Friday fitness class at Bootle Leisure centre, then later in North Park. She also continued to go to the health walk every week, as well as attending The Women’s Space at The Leonards where she had her blood pressure taken. All these steps encouraged her to continue with the changes she was making.

The team further referred Maria to The CAB for advice regarding her being off work, her payments and what she was entitled to.  They managed to sort out her money for her, which she said helped a great deal with her stress levels and low mood.

During her various sessions and meetings, Maria was given details regarding an anti-inflammatory diet, which she took on the suggestions of and started to add into her diet lots of healthy items.  After a month of these new changes, the team measured Maria and she had lost 4 inches.

Maria now attends regularly the Tuesday Walk, the Friday Fitness class, does exercise videos at home and also adds in extra movement when she is in the kitchen and on a walk due to suggestions from her time in the groups.  She is going to The Women’s Space, the community lunch and is meeting another lady from the ‘TDCD’ group to go to church together.  She also attends the weekly Social Group set up for all the clients from the ‘TDCD’ course.

Maria is very supportive of others in all the groups she is in and is an excellent role model as she has followed advice, made changes and really made a big difference in how she is feeling. She has something on every day and her family now know she can still help them, but around her own activities, whereas before they continuously expected Maria to be there all the time.  She said she knows between all the mentors and St. Leonards she has support there for herself.

“I feel on top of the world. I thought I had loads of confidence, but didn’t realise that was only when I was in work. When I was at work I played that role and met and knew lots of people.  When I left work I felt lost and my drinking got out of hand.  I didn’t have any confidence.

Now I am being myself and have found my confidence and if I hadn’t done the ‘TDCD’ course I would have been stuck in the rut.  Meeting genuine people where I could be myself.   I have never gone to an exercise class ever.  I wouldn’t have thought of it.  Now I am encouraging others.  It has given me more confidence to be me as myself and not in my job role. When the fitness class moved outside I thought I am not doing that!!  Now I prefer it!

As well as the fitness class I am also doing the exercise videos through the week and socialising more.  I am eating more healthy and I am not having a problem controlling drink.  People keep commenting that I look really well.  I am still meeting the group from the TDCD, keeping in touch with them all and we pick up on how each other are feeling and are supportive of each other. I am also confident to be on my own and also be me.”

Case study Bill

• Male, aged 81 years, retired
• Accessed Living Well Sefton partner, Feelgood Factory of own accord
• Attended a class under the LWS umbrella

Background

• TA attended Feelgood Factory of his own accord
• Before lockdown he was a very active person, he kept active during lockdowns but was missing the social side of things
• After lockdowns Bill was involved in an RTA which had left him shook up and having to rest

Support given

Bill is retired and prior to lockdown was a very active person, who volunteered at a community garden, was a Sefton walk leader and walked on other days with Men on Track.

During lockdown Bill was walking everyday with his wife, but was missing the day-to-day social interaction and engagement with others. After lockdown Bill was involved with a RTA and was badly shook up and out of action for a few weeks.

The team had a number of conversations with Bill and they were concerned with his general health and that he may have been doing too much – particularly after his accident. They arranged support for Bill through Active Sefton to get him help leading the Sefton walks and also advised Bill to attend yoga to help improve his fitness in a gentle way. It was suggested he leave the other walking for the time being and postpone his return to community garden – which he agreed.

When the Sefton walks are resumed Bill will have a partner to support him on leading the walks. He is really enjoying the yoga and attends regularly. Thanks to this support he now feels able to start going to community garden once a week again.

“I feel a lot better and re-energised.”

Partner: May Logan   Active client: Y	Sex F Age: 61 Postcode: L20
Client background
The client is 61 years old, I first met the client when she was feeling extremely low, her drinking was out of hand and was very stressed and the client showed an interested in the Think Differently Cope differently course.
Support given
The client came on the Think Differently Cope differently course, on the course she had a goal of exercising more and eating more healthily. Next the client joined the Friday fitness, she gradually built up her fitness and continued to go to the walk every week. She has also joined the women’s space, here she has had her blood pressure taken and this has encouraged her to continue with the changes she was making. A referral to the CAB for advice has also been made, this has supported the client to manage her finances. The client has also been given details regarding an anti-inflammatory diet and has took on the suggestions and started to add into her diet lots of healthy items.
Outcomes
The client now regularly attends the Tuesday Walk, the Friday fitness class, and she does my exercise videos at home adding in extra movement when she is in the kitchen and when she is on a walk.  She is going to the women’s space, the community lunch, she is meeting another lady from the TDCD group and going to church together.  She is attending every week the social group set up for all the clients from the TDCD course. This has really widened her social network, enabling her to make friends.   Comments from the client:   “I feel on top of the world” “I am confident to be on my own & be me” “I am eating healthier & able to control my drinking” “if I hadn’t done the TDCD course I would have been stuck in the rut”

Partner: May Logan   Active client: Y	Sex: male Age: 42 Postcode: L21
Client background
Barry has a number of health issues caused by a ‘whipple procedure’ – removed pancreas, gallbladder, spleen due to benign tumours, leaving Barry diabetic overnight. He also has angina. This all caused Barry’s mental health to suffer dramatically and also meant he could not return to work which resulted in his life completely changing.
Support given
I met with Barry when was he was at his lowest, there was a lot going on physically/mentally, he felt he couldn’t cope and felt his life had fell apart. He had no confidence, no self-esteem and couldn’t see a way out of the darkness he was in.   On our first meeting Barry was really nervous at first but soon relaxed. I created a safe space for Barry to open up and feel comfortable to talk to me, I just listened. I praised him on seeking help and pointed out this is the most important step. He told me everything about his current lifestyle, his mindset, his family life, what he enjoys and what’s happened in the past that has led to this referral. I was very empathetic towards Barry and made him feel safe to open up, and that is ok to have emotions and feelings. This is something he struggled with, he doesn’t open up to people as he feels he is a burden. I explained sometimes it’s easier to talk to someone who is not emotionally involved, and I will be that person when he needs it. Barry appreciated this and said he feels comfortable to do so. I set Barry small but achievable goals every week starting by journaling his feelings and being honest with himself, becoming aware of his thoughts and how to deal with them in a positive way. We started to develop his morning routine, planning his day, going out for walks on his own to sort his thoughts out, read self-help books, planning some time each day for himself and listen to what he needs that day in that moment (me time). Over the weeks a lot started to change for Barry. He started smiling and laughing in our sessions and felt a lot lighter. I invited Barry on a group walk to the beach I had planned, he was unsure, but he gave it a go and loved it. He started going the beach on his own with a coffee and listening to music which helped him feel good. I encouraged him to start a walking group with St Leonards which he did! We explored ways he could release anger in a healthy way before it gets too much and learning to recognise it before it does. I asked Barry to start exploring hobbies or projects that he can go to when he needs to focus on something and encouraged his to tap into creativity. He started an art project and can spend hours on it, he loves painting and creating, something he has never explored. Barry also started baking; all of these things are his tools he uses when he needs to come back into the present moment. He loves gardening and has started to do all the jobs he’s never got around to doing. He has also started helping neighbours with jobs as it makes him happy helping others.   I have attended all of Barry’s occupational capability meetings with him for support which have been extremely emotional for him to come to terms that he cannot return to work, and it’s been very hard for him to accept.
Outcomes
This has been a very gradual process and it’s been very hard for Barry to adapt to life. All the inner work and small steps he has done over the last few months has had a huge positive impact on his life and he is a completely different person from when we first met. He is more positive, engaging and is opening up to new learning and activities.  He has recently applied for an allotment and is looking forward to starting a new project for himself.   When I first met Barry, I asked him to set some goals for the next few months which he did and has actioned every one of them. He told me he has set himself a particular goal and will let me know when the time is right.   Comments from Barry:   “Hollie has put a lot of time and effort in to my sessions as she always has plans and ideas ready and always goes the extra mile”   Hollie is a credit to your organisation and I cannot thank her enough, I know you know I really appreciate it”   “If Hollie ever needed someone to speak to a group about my experience and the help I have received and how it has changed my life, I would really love to do something like this to help others”

About the client

Age: 68 Sex: Female Post Code: PR9

How did the client hear about the service?

Via Sefton Carers Centre

Presenting issues

R is a carer for her adult son, who has a diagnosis of autism. Her son finds it difficult to express him emotions and can feel overwhelmed and have meltdowns.   R experiences anxiety, depression, and panic attacks. She can struggle because she gets little respite from her caring role and is not supported by her husband. She feels isolated and trapped.   She used to care for both her parents, but they have now passed away.

Actions taken by mentor   R received a carers assessment, which enabled her to express how she felt about her caring role. It was recognised that R has little time for herself, which is impacting on her emotional wellbeing.   R was referred to the Older Carers Project at the Carers Centre to access arts and crafts groups.     R was referred to the Think Differently, Cope Differently course at the Carers Centre.   R was advised about and applied for a Carers Emergency Card, to give her peace of mind when out of the house.   Information was given about the Life Rooms in Southport for both R and her son.   A grant was applied for so that R could access holistic therapies to lower her stress levels.

Outcomes– what difference have we made to the client?

R is now registered with the Carers Centre and aware of the services here and how to access them. R is also aware of the Life Rooms services in Southport.   R had a carers assessment, which identified support available and gave her the chance to be heard, which she said was important to her.   R is able to have time to herself to access holistic therapies and improve her wellbeing.   R was an active participant in the Think Differently, Cope Differently course, in which she learnt coping mechanisms and identified changes she would like to make in her life.

Partner: Feelgood Factory     Active client: Y / N:  No	Sex: M / F: Male Age: 80 Postcode: L23
Client background, including reason for accessing service (mental health, being active, stopping smoking, debt issues, eating healthy, making friends, etc)
I was initially contacted by the client’s daughter by e-mail, who lives in Australia. She informed me that her mother died that previous week, and that while all the family where feeling the loss, her dad (in GB), was particularly finding it difficult. She had found our service on the internet and she was enquiring about services for her dad and specifically, for his bereavement. She went on to describe her dad as a “real man’s man”, and didn’t believe he would go for a ‘mixed group’. I informed her about our ‘one to one bereavement support service’ and she felt this may be more appropriate for him. Throughout our correspondence, it appeared that this option was still a long shot, as she described her dad as not being a person who would usually discuss or show his feelings and emotions. Despite this, I was given permission to contact Mr P and arrange a suitable appointment date for our first session.
Type of support given to client (a brief outline of the help you gave your client. Eg, Fred was having difficulty with his social housing provider so I contacted them on numerous occasions to resolve his issue of repairs)
To his credit, Mr P attended the first session and we were able to start discussing his reaction to his loss and throughout the subsequent sessions he was able to allow himself to become tearful and upset while discussing his late wife and that this was ok and safe to do during the sessions. He also realised what a relief it was being able to talk to someone about his loss where he felt there was no danger of being judged i.e. ‘being weak’ or ‘losing it’. As the sessions progressed, Mr P was able to identify aspects of his daily living that needed attention e.g. his diet and losing weight. He informed me that he had always been able to cook, but had neglected it of late. He informed me that he had started to “think more creatively” in the kitchen while cooking for one. Mr P also began to understand that while he may continue to grieve and that some days will be better than others, he could accept and begin to be able to manage this reality.
Describe the outcomes of your support. What difference has it made to the client? How has their life been improved as a result of your help? Were they signposted on to another partner? Try to include a quote from the client by asking them what difference your support has made to them.
At the final session, Mr P felt he had benefitted from the sessions and that they had enabled him to ‘navigate’ (ex-Merchant Navy) through a difficult period in his life and that there was a future to be involved with. His gratitude with the service also took the form of a financial donation towards the Feelgood’s services, which was gratefully accepted. Sometime following his last session, I received an e-mail from his daughter in Australia, which I shall quote:  “I just wanted to say thank you for the bereavement work you did recently with my Dad, Mr P. I was very proud of him for attending your sessions as it was way out of his comfort zone. You helped him immensely through a really tough period in his life. You must be a great bloke for him to feel comfortable enough to open up and to keep coming back for the duration. Thank you again for the support you gave him”. In relation to managing his weight loss, he gave me permission to refer him to the ‘Weigh Forward’ programme.

Partner: May Logan	Sex: M Age: 64 Postcode: L31
Client background
Phillip has been attending one to one healthy eating support since April.  He attended 6 sessions on a weekly basis and made exceptional progress. We have recently lengthened the gap between appointments to a month.   Phillip was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes several years ago and was prescribed medication. It’s a condition that runs in his family. He told me that when he was first diagnosed, he made some changes to his diet. However, he said that he didn’t maintain these changes because he believed that if he took his medication, what he was eating, didn’t matter.   Phillip became worried after a routine diabetes health check: despite taking his medication, his HbA1c test showed high average blood sugar levels for the previous few months. Phillip’s blood pressure was also high.  The diabetic nurse discussed the serious complications that could happen as a result of raised HbA1c levels and warned him that unless he changed his lifestyle it would be necessary to increase his medication and there was a strong possibility that he would need insulin in the future. This motivated him to take responsibility for managing his condition. Following this, he had expressed his concern at the Carers Centre and they referred him to May Logan for support.   A couple of weeks into the programme, Phillip had another diabetes health check, including another HbA1c test. As this test shows average blood sugars levels over the last few months, he knew his blood sugars would still be high. However, he was able to tell his diabetic nurse that he had joined this programme and had started to make changes to his diet and increase his levels of physical activity. The diabetic nurse decided to hold off increasing his medication to see whether changing his lifestyle would positively impact his blood sugar levels. Phillip said she was enthusiastic about the potential of this intervention to show the importance of lifestyle in the management of type 2 diabetes. Because Phillip’s blood sugars were high at the start of the programme, if they fell, it would be as a result of the lifestyle changes he had made. However, she did caution that the effect of lifestyle changes may be less dramatic in people with a family history of type 2 diabetes. At the same time, she emphasised that regardless of whether his blood sugars fell, the lifestyle changes he was making were vital for reducing complications, including reducing the risk of heart disease, which is already raised in people with type 2 diabetes. This is a message I have continuously reinforced during the programme. Phillip is due another HbA1c test in July/Aug.
Support given
Phillip received weekly diabetes management support. The focus of this support is to Educate clients around the key healthy eating messages relating to the 5 main food groupsEncourage clients to eat a balanced, varied diet whilst limiting fatty, sugary and salty foods. Highlight the importance of physical activity in diabetes management and encourage clients to increase physical activity.Help clients to set one or two healthy eating/physical activity goals each weekMonitor progress, including weight loss if relevant Clients receive a weekly information pack with healthy eating tips, recipes and exercise ideas
Outcomes
When we reviewed his food and activity diary at the beginning of the programme, it showed his diet was very high in sugary foods and other refined carbs. He ate between 6 and 8 slices of white bread a day (with butter) for example, and at meals when he didn’t eat white bread, he ate white rice. He also ate no veg, though he did have 2 portions of fruit a day. He drank 4 coffees a day with a sweetener, and drank diet coke most days. Phillip’s diary also indicated a sedentary lifestyle. Phillip made many positive changes. Every week he achieved the goals he had set himself the previous week. He has… completely cut out diet coke and sweeteners in hot drinkscut out virtually all sugary foodsswapped to wholegrain bread and limits intake to 2 slices a daychooses other wholegrain carbs where possible e.g. brown riceadjusted portion sizes for carbs (and other foods) as recommendedincreased fruit and veg intake to 5 a dayswapped from semi-skimmed to skimmed milkswapped butter for olive oil-based spreadincreased the variety of protein foods eaten to include more eggs and oily fish twice a week (thereby reducing intake of meat)stopped adding salt during cookingsubstantially reduced the amount of salt added to food at the table and intends to stop adding it altogetherdevised his own physical activity programme which includes at least 45 minutes of aerobic exercise every day (walking or a Joe Wicks class), as well as strength exercises several times a week Benefits for Phillip Although Phillip was not visibly overweight (12st 8lb) and was not overly concerned about losing weight, he highlighted that he carried excess fat around his middle, which he knew to be a health risk for people with type 2 diabetes, so he was keen to get rid of this “flab”. Since starting the programme, Phillip has lost 6lb and has had to tighten his belt by 2 notches. He said his stomach is flatter and firmer and that he was pleased not to have lost the weight from places he didn’t need to lose it. This is partly due to the type of physical activity he chose.Phillip’s blood pressure is now within the ideal rangehis finger prick tests show his blood sugars to be within the ideal range and Phillip has reported that he “feels great”. He said he has lots of energy and is “sleeping better than ever”. He said his muscles feel stronger and his balance and flexibility have improved

Mental Health

2023 Case studies

Partner: May Logan  Active client: Yes

Client no: 5876 Sex: Male Postcode: L20

Barry Grace first engaged with our service in January 2022 via a referral from a Social Prescriber and was struggling to manage a range of physical health conditions that had begun to impact his mental health. He was assigned an LWS Mentor and started to engage with weekly one to one sessions to improve his mental health. A case study was submitted in June 2022 to highlight the positive changes he had made.

Over the course of the year Barry continued to receive regular one to one support to further help him in his wellbeing journey, working on behaviour change, setting goals, motivation and assisting him to developing coping strategies.

We supported him to sign up and become a volunteer for St John’s Ambulance, attend Think Differently Cope Differently, and groups such as those at Sean’s place for further peer support which provided Barry with a great opportunity to build new social networks.

At our last catch up in August 2023 he revealed he is now a volunteer mentor with Age Concern and is enjoying giving back to the community and helping people in the same way he has been helped. He is feeling mentally stronger and better able to deal with his physical health conditions.

Longer-term outcomes- Key improvements

When Barry first came into LWS he was at his lowest, physically and mentally, he felt unable to cope and felt his life had fallen apart. Today Barry is thriving, attending regular groups in the community including engaging with our community partners such as St Leonards and Sean’s Place, is now a volunteer and no longer needs regular mentor support. He is proactive in seeking out and attending new activities and has a new zest for life and learning. He is not afraid to try new things and is happy to share his experiences with others.

Improvements in health scores

Improvements in lifestyle	Start of his journey (Feb 2022)	1 month later (March 2022)	End (Nov 2022)	Maintained (as at August 2023)
ONS Wellbeing	4	24	35	35
Mental Wellbeing	14 (very low)	22	30	30 (above average)

Barry’s case has been complex due to the nature of his physical health conditions and the impact this has had on him mentally however, with Mentor support and small changes Barry has had an amazing transformation that is still evident more than 12 months later.

Partner: May Logan  Active client: Yes

Client no: 49318 Sex: Male Postcode: L20

Mark was first referred in April 2023 struggling with stress and suicidal thoughts. He was assigned an LWS Mentor and started weekly one to one appointments for a period of three months. He made great progress, and a case study was submitted for the period of Q1 (Apr-Jun 23) to highlight the positive changes he had made.

After this period we lengthened the gap between sessions but still gave Mark a goal to follow to help with motivation and follow his progress. We agreed to monthly check ins which Mark stuck to and was keen to highlight further changes he had made. He reported that he was now able to manage his everyday stress and although still experiencing the odd dip in mood he was now able to implement some of the techniques he had learned to stop thoughts spiralling. At a review in September 2023 Mark felt he was in a good place, no longer having suicidal thoughts and was busy with his physical activity, implementing swimming and cycling into his routine and making to do lists to get things done. He no longer needs mentor support and is maintaining the changes he has made and feeling better and more able to cope.

Improvements in health scores

Improvements in lifestyle	Start of his journey (April 2023)	2 months later (June 2023)	Aug (2023)	Maintained (as at August 2023)
ONS Wellbeing	19	31 (above average)		Yes – maintaining changes and feeling good
Mental Wellbeing	25	28	32 (above average)	Yes – maintaining changes and feeling good

Mark is still engaging with Active Sefton to further build on his physical fitness.

Partner: Brighter Living Partnership   Active client: No	Client no: 49577 Sex: Female Age: 35 Postcode: PR8 1BX
Client background
ST has an 18-month-old child and has struggled with her mental health since he was born. ST would previous rely on alcohol to deal with her problems and she stopped using alcohol her mental health plummeted. Struggling to bond with her child her health visitor put her in touch with various charities including Home-Start.
Support given
We offered a block of TDCD to Home-Start for their families and ST was able to take a place due to child care provide by the volunteers at Canning Road Church. ST was able to attend most sessions, though we did the follow up questions via phone. ST engaged well and was a supportive influence to the other attendees.
Outcomes
ST initially scored 23 on ONS which has improved to 28. ST described her mental health as improving slightly and that she would participate in further courses or activities after completing TDCD. ST said the best part of the course were “the other girls. It was a nice environment where I felt safe to talk about myself and my struggles. There was no judgement which I have found from people in the past and was able to share my story.”

Presenting issues

Karen was originally referred to Sefton Carers Centre for a Carers Assessment regarding her caring role for her mother.  When I met Karen at the Carers Peer Support Group at Brighter Living Partnership in Southport, this was the first time she had attended anything in support of her own needs for some time and she was feeling low, stressed and anxious.

Actions taken by mentor

After a conversation with myself and LWS Mentor Kathy, the carer was referred to the Think Differently Cope Differently course for 5 weeks. The Carer feels this is currently helping her to meet new people and build resilience in her caring role.  She continues to attend the Carer Peer Support Group and TDCD.   On calling the carer to complete her Carers Assessment, it was identified that she was also struggling to manage her own physical health and she agreed to me liaising with Brighter Living Partnership regarding their Weigh Forward course which, I thankfully discovered, she had already been referred to and BLP were ringing her in due course to enrol her. On discussing additional physical exercise the carer enjoyed and her current barriers to progressing with these, it was identified that she enjoyed swimming and aqua aerobics which she hadn’t been able to attend for some time due to the costs. Swimming and aqua aerobics were also particularly a good choice of exercise for this carer as they have less of an impact on her joints and Fibromyalgia. To help her improve her physical health, I therefore applied for a small grant to put towards the costs of paying for a gym membership.  The carer was happy with this action for now and felt it would help her move forward.   In support of her additional financial issues regarding utility debts, I was able to refer her the carer to Sefton Carers Centre Energy Projects team for ongoing support and intervention, and I was finally able to signpost her to Macmillan for advice regarding her caring role for her relative with Cancer who she had been caring for some time as this was something which was impacting her own wellbeing.

Outcomes– what difference have we made to the client?

The carer is now much more engaged with other carers, and she is taking proactive steps towards improving her own physical and mental wellbeing.  She is less isolated in her caring role and has weekly activities to attend with others.

Partner involvement – which other LWS partners or neighbourhood partners were involved in the support that was given? How did they contribute to the outcomes?

Sefton Carers Centre and Brighter Living Partnership.

How did the client hear about the service?

Referral from Social Prescriber

Presenting issues

B has cared for her husband for a number of years. A few months ago he was admitted to hospital after a fall and has now been diagnosed with end stage prostate cancer.  He was  not able to return home as B has her own ill health i.e. heart problems and COPD, and she was not be able to care for him, which was distressing for them both. Due to her poor mobility she had to rely on her niece to take her to visit her husband in hospital.  She was able to travel to and from the hospital by taxi but she needed support once she arrived. I found out that hospital volunteers could take her to the ward in a wheelchair.

Actions taken by mentor

B was devastated by the news of her husband’s advanced cancer and whilst she has emotional support from her friends over the phone, I have been providing her with ongoing emotional support with regular phone calls.  She needed advice regarding care homes and funding etc., as she wanted to ensure her husband would be settled and well looked after. I was able to provide B with detailed information and her husband is now receiving end of life care.

Outcomes– what difference have we made to the client?

B was better informed regarding her husband’s discharge from hospital and care home placement.  She is understandably distressed at her husband’s rapd decline, but she appreciates the emotional support I have been able to provide.

Partner:BLP	Sex: F Age: 47 Postcode: PR9
Client background
JM came to BLP as a referral from the SPLW’s. JM was offered a place on the TDCD course. JM has physical health issues and wanted to make sure she could move around during the course as her pain fluctuated.
Support given
JM came along to the course, which she really took an active part in. She engaged well with other attendees and then came along to a mindfulness session on week 6. This was a big thing for JM, and she had previously been told mindfulness would help her physical health and then been disheartened when it didn’t work. During the TDCD course we talked about using mindfulness as an everyday tool, almost as a preventive against stress build up. JM said the 5 ways to well to wellbeing will have an impact on improving her mental health. JM said the best part of the course was “SMART goals- I’ve not thought about goals for a long time”.
Outcomes
Since this course JM is going to attend the life rooms and CBT. JM said “It is great to have such a course in the area- it’s basic but has hopefully helped going long term”, also “it was nice to be talked to by people who were just normal (not clinical/an everyday person just with training in this field).

Partner: BLP	Sex: M Age: 18 Postcode: PR9
Client background
LS is a client that was referred for TDCD by our Health and Well Being Coach based at St Mark’s Medical Centre. LS had a challenging childhood and struggles to live a healthy life in terms of diet, smoking and drug use.
Support given
LS came along for a UC and a chat about TDCD. He was concerned he would be the youngest person on this course. Having discussed this client with my colleague at St Marks we didn’t feel he would attend due to his age, and anxiety but we kept the invitation open for him. LS did attend and as it happens only 1 other client came too. This enabled a lovely relationship to form between these 2 clients.
Outcomes
Over the course of TDCD LS came out of his shell and began some very open conversations about himself and his struggles. He described the course much improving his mental health and said the best thing about the course was “Getting out of the house and meeting new people.”. LS said his favourite part of the course was the poem (My life in 5 chapters) “as it inspired me to write my own poem”. LS sent me this poem in a text and set a goal of joining some creative writing groups as a way to deal with his past. LS said” The TDCD course is very helpful and beneficial, especially with raising confidence.

About the client

Age: 78 Sex: M Post Code: PR8

How did the client hear about the service?

Self-referral to Sefton Carers Centre

Presenting issues

J cares for his wife who has dementia.  He meets all of her care needs without any external support.  He has an adult son who lives at home, but he works full time so is not available during the working week to help or to provide replacement care.   J is under investigation himself for liver cancer and has to attend hospital on a frequent basis for tests.  He contacted the Carers Centre for advice regarding care for his wife while he attends his own appointments, as he was not able to take her with him and she could not be left alone at home.

Actions taken by mentor

J was registered with the Carers Centre, and he was given advice and support around arranging replacement care for his wife.  He was able to make arrangements at short notice with a local day centre for his wife to spend the day there while he attended hospital for his upcoming appointment; without this he would not have been able to keep his appointment.  He has completed an application form for a Carers Emergency Card, and he was also sent a form to complete an emergency plan, both of which will provide him with peace of mind.  J was also referred to the LWS service for ongoing support and to complete a carers assessment.

Outcomes– what difference have we made to the client?

J was provided with support that enabled him to attend his own hospital appointments.  He was given peace of mind with the reassurance that he could contact the Carers Centre for advice and support given the very uncertain situation he is facing regarding his own health, and he has been able to put a plan in place in the event of an emergency arising.  J will also have the opportunity to discuss his caring role in more detail when his carers assessment is completed to find out whether any additional support can be offered.

About the client

Age: 64 Sex: Female Post Code: L38

How did the client hear about the service?

L is an existing client of the Carers Centre, and she was referred to LWS by the carers support worker who completed her carers assessment.

Presenting issues

L cares for her husband who has terminal cancer, he also has scoliosis of his neck and spine causing problems with his mobility.  L provides 24/7 care, as her husband will not accept help from a care agency, she subsequently finds that each day is structured and extremely restricted.  L also has her own ill health, which impacts on her ability to cope with her caring role.  She does not have family support and she has few friends.  She rarely gets time to herself, and she feels isolated.  She is finding her situation very distressing, and she finds it particularly difficult emotionally to deal with her husband’s terminal diagnosis.

Actions taken by mentor

As a result of her carers assessment L was awarded a one-off carers direct payment to fund a swimming membership at Victoria Leisure Centre in Southport.    She was also referred to the Think Differently, Cope Differently course, at the Carers Centre.

Outcomes– what difference have we made to the client?

L enjoys going to the Leisure Centre, and she has fed back to us that swimming has helped her physical health, as she has seen an improvement in her own conditions.  It also helps her mental wellbeing, as she has met people who have become acquaintances and they chat and laugh together.    L attended the Think Differently, Cope Differently course.  She fully engaged and fed back that the part of the course she enjoyed most was finding that other people were experiencing similar feelings and issues as her.  She left the course with a resolve to take more care of herself.

Case study for Q4 Theme:  Mental Health
Partner: N/A   Active client: Y	Client no: 48415 Sex: Male Age: 60 Postcode: PR9
Client background
Client has a background of mental health issues. They were particularly isolated and struggled connecting with others prior to coming to the centre. Initially referred into the service via the Social Prescriber Link worker attached to a local surgery.
Support given
Client was referred into the Men’s group at the community centre and has enjoyed the activities and the chat Client was referred into the Poetry group out in the local community Client attended Brighter Connections – new social group started two months ago and is planning to continue with their attendance Client has benefited from an occasional telephone check-in over recent weeks since being referredOngoing work with the client remains as they would like to do some volunteering if the right opportunity presents itself
Outcomes
Client has fed back that they feel that their life has changed for the better since coming to the community centre and they enjoy attending the sessions at the poetry group and the men’s group. Client enjoys poetry and the connection with others in the group but is hesitant re writing poetry at the moment.  Client feels welcome and feels that it has made a difference to their health and their life in general since coming along.

Case study for Q4 – March 2023 Theme:  Mental Health
Partner: BLP   Active client: N	Client no: 43641 Sex: F Age: 54 Postcode: PR9
Client background
Client was a long-time attendee of activities at the community centre and has been struggling with her anxiety levels and resilience.
Support given
Client attended the 5-week TDCD course and really opened up and connected with others on the course. She was able to offer insight into her own worries and experiences with low mood and anxiety, and reported to me that it was really helpful being able to listen to other people’s experiences, which has helped reassure her that she’s not alone. She also started attending a craft group that we run, that she’s previously attended but stopped because of her anxiety levels.
Outcomes
Client reported feeling much more positive at the end of the 5 week sessions, and has had an increase in her scores on both the UC and ONS. She has now moved out of area to be nearer family but we completed these over the phone, and discussed moving forward and carrying on the self-work started during the course. Client feels confident in accessing similar support for peer network and activities in her new place of residence.

Community Resiliance

Case studies 2022

Partner: Citizens Advice Sefton     Active client: Y	Sex: M Age: 45 Postcode: L21
Please include a case study here, including as much information as possible around the support given to the person and the difference it has ade to them, whether that is increased confidence, improved wellbeing, better mobility, renewed interest in old or new hobbies, reduction in medication, less visits to GP, making a meal from scratch etc.
Client background, including reason for accessing service (mental health, being active, stopping smoking, debt issues, eating healthy, making friends, etc)
Client was referred into the service for advice around benefits and debt. Client was struggling with poor mental health, in particular PTSD. Client lives alone in a housing association rented property and was struggling to manage his bills and budgeting. Client was unable to manage these issues alone without support.
Type of support given to client (a brief outline of the help you gave your client. Eg, Fred was having difficulty with his social housing provider so I contacted them on numerous occasions to resolve his issue of repairs)
We assisted client with a claim for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) disability benefit. The claim was refused. We assisted with requesting a Mandatory Reconsideration of the decision. Again this was refused. We assisted the client to appeal this decision to an Independent Tribunal. During the appeal process, we helped the client to obtain medical evidence to support his appeal, assessed the evidence and submitted this to Her Majesty’s Courts and Tribunals service (HMCTS). In preparation for the face to face appeal hearing, we advised client about what to expect and the questions he would be asked by the Judge, Doctor and Disability Expert. We also prepared a written submission for the panel outlining the reasons for entitlement.
Describe the outcomes of your support. What difference has it made to the client? How has their life been improved as a result of your help? Were they signposted on to another partner? Try to include a quote from the client by asking them what difference your support has made to them.
After 2 years of working on this case, we attended the appeal hearing with the client. The client was awarded Personal Independence Payment (PIP) Standard Rate Daily Living and Standard Rate Mobility from 16/01/2020 to 31/05/2023. Client received a back payment of approximately £10,000 and awarded £87.35 per week equating to a 4 weekly payment of £349.40 until at least 31/05/2023. Client was extremely happy with the outcome and said he would not have been able to do this without our support. Client also felt reassured that he was actually “believed” which he has struggled with over the years. Client says he would be able to pay off any outstanding debts and do up his flat which would both, in turn help with his mental health.

Partner: Citizens Advice Sefton     Active client: Y	Sex: M  Age: 30 Postcode: L20
Client background
Client came to us for assistance with a number of benefit advice issues. Client has severe health conditions and struggles with his mobility and completing daily tasks. Client is also socially isolated and struggles with his mental health. Client is originally from Iraq and does not speak English. Client applied for PIP May 2020 and in December 2020 his claim was refused after scoring zero points on both Daily Living and Mobility components of PIP. Cl in receipt of Universal Credit (UC) and was sent a UC50 work capability assessment form which had been completed in July 2021. Some seven months later he had still not had the Work Capability Assessment (WCA) and in the meantime he was sanctioned for failure to attend a Jobcentre appointment, despite being physically and mentally unwell and having language difficulties.
Support given
Note that we used language line for all interactions with client ad third parties Assistance with Appeal of PIP decision We assisted client with submitting appeal against the decision and then obtaining further medical evidence from client’s social worker and social prescriber in support of the appeal. We made a written submission for the court and represented client at the Tribunal hearing. Challenging UC sanction and application for a hardship payment. As client had been sanctioned he did not receive any UC for February 2022 and only £49 for March 2022. We assisted client to submit a Mandatory Reconsideration of the sanction and also to apply for 2 hardship payments of £161. We also provided a food voucher. Assistance re WCA of UC. We contacted UC and client’s work coach to arrange for a WCA assessment to be carried out. A face to face assessment was then arranged. We submitted further medical evidence and supporting letters to Bootle Medical Assessment services and checked they had the completed UC50 form
Outcomes
Following telephone appeal tribunal, the appeal was upheld and client was awarded Standard Rate Daily Living of PIP (£60 a week).The award was from 6 May 2020 to 5th May 2023 and arrears will be approximately £5940.   As a result of the supporting evidence we submitted, client was contacted by Medical Assessment Services and informed he did not need to attend the telephone assessment.   Client then had a letter attached to his UC Journal this letter stated that he had been awarded Limited Capability for Work Related Activity ( LCWRA) and so will get an extra £343 a month and he will not have to attend any more Jobcentre appointments or undertake any work-related activity with threat of sanction also removed.   Client struggles to get out due to his mobility and cannot attend appointments unless he travels in a taxi. He now does not need to attend the Jobcentre something that is difficult and extremely stressful for him. Client has the LCWRA element of UC and Standard Rate Daily Living of PIP and so he is now £603.63 a month better off. This means that where he was struggling to pay for food and utilities etc he is now better able to manage. Cl can also afford the taxi fares to get to his medical appointments and he will also be able to pay for the care he needs with his daily tasks. Improved finances will hopefully help with stressors to his mental health.   We have not had the outcome of the challenge to the UC sanction as yet, but we anticipate a positive outcome and client to be reimbursed all the monies for the two months in question.

Provider: Sefton CVS / Seaforth and Litherland PCN Active client:  YES	Client no: 996 Sex: M Age: 52 Postcode: L21
Jeff was referred to the service 15.3.21.  He had been homeless during covid and had been moved into a local hotel.  One Vision Housing had then rehoused him in a flat in Litherland. Jeff has advanced COPD and was not coping well with the move.   He began to experience antisocial behaviour from an upstairs neighbour almost immediately on moving in. This escalated over a 12-month period and included incidents such as lit fireworks through the letter box, a dead rat nailed to his door, cutting his tv aerial etc. Jeff’s ill health meant he could not/did not retaliate and was left feeling very vulnerable.   Jeff was very depressed after having spent several years homeless, he had hoped this would be his forever home. He was not engaging with health services as he could not focus his energies on himself.    Initially we worked together to reinstate Jeff’s benefits which had been stopped. He had also never applied for PIP which he was entitled to. Along with a support worker from One Vision Housing whom I worked alongside, we worked on helping Jeff get settled in his home.  Support to apply for ELAS from the council – basic household items, bed, microwave etc.Applied to CVS charity Provident for a washing machineFunding for paint via One Vision Housing.   Jeff has experienced a great deal of trauma in his life and is a former drug user. He lost his son and brother to murder a few years ago, and experienced a difficult childhood.    It became clear as time moved on that Jeff was not going to get relief from the ASB he was experiencing.  As a former offender and drug user, Jeff was known to the police and felt because of this he did not get their support.    Despite the nature of the harassment, Jeff’s neighbour was never arrested or questioned, even following the firework attack which was extremely shocking.    I helped Jeff get reinstated on Property pool.  The police and his housing officer supplied supporting letters to help him move up a band.   I worked to get the support of Jeff’s housing officer in terms of finding him a property to move to. Normal rules are that a tenant needs to have been in their property for 12 months before they can arrange a move or get onto Property Pool.  We were able to get Jeff on to the housing lists sooner due to the disturbances he was being subjected to.  As Jeff had a dog, this limited him even further in the property search.   The following support was put in place Referral to adult social care – care package in place for help around the homeReferral to occupational health for assessmentSupporting reports from Occ.Health and Adult Social Care for Property Pool and One Vision HousingAwarded high rate PIP in December 2021 – prior to this, Jeff had to choose whether to ‘heat or eat’ on a very low incomeReferred for talking therapy via Reach Men’s Services (eventually withdrew as found this too traumatic)Lifeline installed for safety as Jeff has falls/passes out from lack of oxygenFood bank parcels were a regular item for Jeff as he was on such a low incomeSupport with debts via CAB and St Leonards (energy related)   In late 2021, Jeff’s physical health became very poor. He was admitted to hospital for several weeks to recover.  Jeff had initially refused to go to hospital as he had nowhere to take his dog.  I worked in partnership with a local animal rescue charity to provide urgent boarding for the dog. Jeff was only able to afford this as he had been awarded PIP. Without this, he would have had to give up his dog for adoption.    Jeff was finally allocated a bungalow with a garden for the dog, and moved in January 2022. He is in the process of arranging decorating and purchasing furniture.  Assisted Jeff with packing and moving as his COPD has progressed so much he finds it difficult to stand and even make a simple cup of tea, without losing his breath.   Jeff felt so uncomfortable in his last property that he did not settle or make it homely as he felt it was so unsafe. He tells me he feels a weight has been lifted from him and he can now try to live his life happily.  Jeff did return to drug use in 2021 as he felt his life was so unbearable. Since then he has been working with ‘We Are with You’ and made his GP aware so he could access support.   I am currently helping Jeff set up his new home, which includes setting up bills and energy accounts; arranging further personal support at home to reflect his changing needs; applied for a new oven from a charity; referred for dental work to local surgery. Jeff is now engaging well with health services as he recognises that he needs the help.  He is hopeful for the future and planning on finally taking his driving test so he can use a mobility car to get around. We are working towards Jeff engaging more with community services to reduce his isolation.
Housing Case – referred March 2021   Sue lives in a privately rented 3 bed property which she formerly shared with her father, who passed away around 18 months ago.  Sue had given up her job to care for her father and had done so for around 4 years before he passed away.  They were isolated together all through covid.   JD needs to move to a smaller property as she cannot afford the ‘bedroom tax’ top up, which is £275 per month on top of the rent.  When her father passed away, she registered for Property pool and began packing up the house, as she assumed she would be moving soon.    JD’s income was so low when she referred to the social prescribing service, she was living in one room and choosing between heating and eating, and using candles for light.   Costs: Rent £675 UC pay £399 towards rent Top up £275 Leaving Sue c£30 to live on per week.   Assisted Sue with applying for discretionary housing payments via the CAB which she received for 6 months and then reapplied.  She has reapplied again but this has dropped down to £50 per month.   Supported Sue to appeal to Property Pool – Band moved from D-C.  Have re-appealed on the basis of financial hardship and mental health issues to ask for Band to be raised to a B – Sue is effectively agoraphobic, having left the house only a handful of times in the last 2 years.  Sue also has a dog which makes the pool of properties available much smaller, as many 1 beds/flats will not allow pets.   Supported Sue to apply for PIP alongside the CAB.  Sue has just been awarded PIP which included a back payment. She has used this to pay her rent arrears and top up.  She is unlikely to be eligible for any more DHP payments.    Although the PIP award has taken away some of the stress for Sue, she is unsure how long she will be able to juggle payments for the large top up.  The increase in energy bills due in April is also a huge concern for her. I will be continuing to support Sue through this.

Partner:  Brighter Living     Active client: HL	Sex: F Age: 31 years old Postcode: PR9
Please include a case study here, including as much information as possible around the support given to the person and the difference it has made to them, whether that is increased confidence, improved wellbeing, better mobility, renewed interest in old or new hobbies, reduction in medication, less visits to GP, making a meal from scratch etc.
Client background
HC was referred to BLP from her GP in June last year. She needed help and support to reduce stress and anxiety. HC is partially blind and has a guide dog. HC was a bit reluctant at the start but opened up after few sessions. She spoke about her alcohol addiction and asked for help. She also mentioned that during lockdown, she lost many friends due to the closure of venues where she used to meet people. She felt isolated and started drinking. At that time, we were limited to what we could offer HC. I made a referral to Ambition Sefton and I was meeting her once a week for a walk and a chat. Few weeks later, she joined the walking group. She came every Wednesday to the Hesketh park and enjoyed meeting new people, she was also lucky to be re-united with an old friend that also attended the walking group. When we resumed face to face group session. She signed up for TDCD  course. She attended the five sessions and her participation was great. She really enjoyed the course! After the course ended, she expressed that she was feeling in a great place, she felt more relaxed, positive and optimistic about the future. She even told me that she met a new boyfriend and could not be any happier. She felt she didn’t need anymore support and was grateful for our help.
Support given
A referral to Ambition Sefton. One to one well being support to reduce stress and anxiety, encourage her to engage in groups. Think differently, cope differently course to learn how to manage stress and anxiety. joining groups to make new friends and be active. HC attended walking group and craft group.
Outcomes
HC moved to a new home with her boyfriend. HC doesn’t call her GP regularly anymore. HC expressed that she feels relaxed, optimistic, in control of her drinking and in a better place.

Community Resiliance

Case studies 2023

About the client

Client number: 47256 Age: 78 Sex: M Post Code: PR8

How did the client hear about the service?

Self-referral to Sefton Carers Centre

Presenting issues

J cares for his wife who has dementia.  He meets all of her care needs without any external support.  He has an adult son who lives at home, but he works full time so is not available during the working week to help or to provide replacement care.   J is under investigation himself for liver cancer and has to attend hospital on a frequent basis for tests.  He contacted the Carers Centre for advice regarding care for his wife while he attends his own appointments, as he was not able to take her with him and she could not be left alone at home.

Actions taken by mentor

J was registered with the Carers Centre, and he was given advice and support around arranging replacement care for his wife.  He was able to make arrangements at short notice with a local day centre for his wife to spend the day there while he attended hospital for his upcoming appointment; without this he would not have been able to keep his appointment.  He has completed an application form for a Carers Emergency Card, and he was also sent a form to complete an emergency plan, both of which will provide him with peace of mind.  J was also referred to the LWS service for ongoing support and to complete a carers assessment.

Outcomes– what difference have we made to the client?

J was provided with support that enabled him to attend his own hospital appointments.  He was given peace of mind with the reassurance that he could contact the Carers Centre for advice and support given the very uncertain situation he is facing regarding his own health, and he has been able to put a plan in place in the event of an emergency arising.  J will also have the opportunity to discuss his caring role in more detail when his carers assessment is completed to find out whether any additional support can be offered.

Partner: CAS  Active client: Y / N – Closed  Client no: CL-114099328 Sex: M / F Age: 42 Postcode: PR9 Client background, including reason for accessing service (mental health, being active, stopping smoking, debt issues, eating healthy, making friends, etc) Cl was referred to service following poor physical and mental health and for advice about challenging a Personal Independence Payment (PIP) decision. Client was refused PIP Daily Living Component and refused PIP Mobility Component, but could not challenge the decision herself. Type of support given to client (a brief outline of the help you gave your client. Eg, Fred was having difficulty with his social housing provider so I contacted them on numerous occasions to resolve his issue of repairs)   We advised the client about her time limits, appeals process and what to expect. We advised the client that she would need medical evidence to support her appeal. We assisted client to obtain medical evidence and submit this to Her Majesty’s Courts and Tribunals Service. We advised client what to expect at the appeal hearing and who would be present. We prepared the client giving sample questions. We prepared a written submission for the appeal hearing outlining our reasons for appealing. We attended the appeal hearing at Her Majesty’s Courts and Tribunals Service with the client.   Describe the outcomes of your support. What difference has it made to the client? How has their life been improved as a result of your help? Were they signposted on to another partner? Try to include a quote from the client by asking them what difference your support has made to them.   We won the appeal. The client was awarded PIP Standard Rate Daily Living from 22/03/2021 to 21/03/2026 and awarded PIP Enhanced Rate Mobility from 22/03/2021 to 21/03/2026. The client’s PIP score went from 0 points to 24 points. Following the tribunal, the client received a backdated payment of £11,196.80 and will receive an additional £505.40 ever 4 weeks until her claim is re-assessed in 2026. This will in turn help the client to live more independently.   “Thank you so much for everything Holly.”

Case study for Q3: December 2022 Theme: Mental health and Community Resourcefulness Partner: BLP Active client: Y   Client no: 47203 Sex: M Age: 41 Postcode: PR8 Client background Including reason for accessing service (mental health, being active, stopping smoking, debt issues, eating healthy, making friends, etc) Client was referred to BLP from the Social Prescribing team. He has some health concerns at the moment, both physically and mentally and is looking for ways to be more active, and also to be more sociable and connect with his peers to help with his mental health and sense of belonging. Support given   Client came into the community café to meet with me and do a universal consultation to identify the areas he would particularly like to work on and to set himself some goals to work towards.  He struggled a bit with identifying goals so we just set one and suggested we can work on that over the next 12 weeks.   He was particularly interested in the gardening and men’s shed as he likes crafting and making things, and being hands-on.    He also identified that he needs to eat better as he’s been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.    Outcomes   Client has attended 2 cooking sessions and is keen to do more in 2023. We discussed our Weigh Forward program but decided it would be best for him to seek specialist support from the nutritionist given his recent diagnosis.   He has started attending the men’s shed, and we’ve also discussed him leading a craft-type session next year to show some of his woodwork engraving that he enjoys.    Case study for Q4: March 2023 Theme: Community Resourcefulness Partner: Brighter Living Partnership   Active client: No   Client no: 32053 Sex: F Age: 56 Postcode: PR9 Client background JL has previously been a case study for improving her mental health, following completing of TDCD last year. JL has family issues, with a daughter who has drug addiction and child custody issues. This has left JL feeling anxious, depressed and, at times, suicidal. Support given JL came along to TDCD and was a valuable member of the group.  JL then showed an interest in volunteering so I gave her support with starting this process as she signed up to be a volunteer with us. Outcomes JL has been volunteering in our Warm Space (Cosy Café). JL has really enjoyed this, taking a leading role in the kitchen, but also in providing a warm welcome to the guests and initiating games such as bingo and dominoes with attendees. JL has described to me a recent interaction at Cosy Café that meant a lot to her. A new attendee began to talk to her about his mental health problems and JL felt able to empathise with him, and share parts of her story and, more importantly, her journey to well-being. JL felt this was helpful to them both and she was proud of being able to help.