Through the NIHR Health Determinants Research Collaboration (HDRC) Leicestershire Community Grants Programme, five community organisations across Leicestershire were awarded funding to design and deliver their own community-led events aligned to one of our nine research priorities to deeper delve and understand the lived experiences of Leicestershire residents.
The organisations selected for the community grants programme were:
- NE:U Community Wellbeing CIC
- Access All Areas Training CIC
- Pride in Coalville
- Moving Together
- Signing Network CIC
Focusing on the priority of reducing isolation and strengthening community wellbeing, NE:U Community Wellbeing CIC recently delivered the first of four planned community events: an engaging and thought-provoking focus group exploring how the brain responds to stress and the impact this can have on our bodies, mental health, and overall wellbeing.
The session was both innovative and informative, helping attendees better understand the science behind stress while encouraging open discussion around personal experiences and practical ways to support wellbeing. Participants explored how physical health, emotional resilience, and social connections can all impact on one another if one area is in crisis, providing valuable insight into an issue that affects many people in our communities.
Alongside this, Access All Training Areas Training CIC also carried out the first phase of their event; “a gritty, short, and sharp talking-heads documentary, which will provide Leicestershire HDRC with an unvarnished social commentary on contemporary life in Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, in 2026”, focussing on the priority of inclusive opportunities to discover and pursue aspirations with the residents of Melton Mowbray.
Both events were exceptionally well received, with attendees praising the accessible approach, interactive discussions, hearing from other people and opportunity to learn more about the links between brain health and wellbeing and the opportunities (or lack thereof) available for Melton Mowbray residents.
We are excited to see the remaining events which will be delivered by all of our selected organisations. Leicestershire HDRC are passionate about hearing directly from our communities and we will continue to support community-led approaches that bring people together, build knowledge, and tackle health priorities across Leicestershire.
A huge thank you to everyone involved in the community grants programme, for bringing together local people and creating such a welcoming and impactful space for learning and connection.
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