Westlea Support Services Projects shortlisted in 2010 Health and Wellbeing Partnership Awards

Wiltshire's Health and Wellbeing Partnership awards celebrate the work of individuals, organisations, and employers making a significant contribution to improving the health and wellbeing of Wiltshire people.

At the awards ceremony on 10 March, two of Westlea Housing's Support Services Projects were shortlisted.

The North Wiltshire Womens Refuge were shortlisted for the Sanofi Pasteur MSD award for innovation in health improvement for their "Earn to Learn" scheme. This scheme was started by Karen Townley and three ex-residents of the Refuge in February 2009 to address the social isolation created through abusive relationships and mental and emotional distress, by helping people fulfil their potential. The aim of the scheme is to build resilience and confidence, promoting wellbeing through social involvement and enterprise. This can be the first step for many in returning to work. Their profits are now being used to sustain a fund to meet any individual's needs in an educational setting, with a view to employment or to pursue an interest, and to organize fun days to build on social networks and sense of community.

Community 4 (who won in 08/09) were shortlisted for the award for improvement in mental health and wellbeing. This shortlisting recognised the work being done by Community 4 to help everyone in our communities achieve and maintain good mental health and wellbeing.