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A happy Lambeth

19/05/2009
A happy Lambeth

Over 150 people came together at the Brit Oval on 2 April to discuss happiness and wellbeing in Lambeth. The event was an opportunity for anyone who lives, works or volunteers in the borough to shape the priorities for a new three-year mental wellbeing strategy for Lambeth.

At a time when people are facing more challenges than ever, Lambeth First held the event to find out how happiness and wellbeing can be achieved.

Naomi Eisenstadt, Director of the Social Exclusion Task Force from central government, opened the event outlining why wellbeing matters for individuals, communities and organisations. She explained that wellbeing was as much about physical environment, family and friends as well as the services provided by government organisations.

Some of the priorities that came out of the discussions included improving the physical built environment, increasing communication with hard to reach groups and the effects of the recession on wellbeing. Ideas about encouraging people to become more involved in cultural and creative events, the wellbeing of young people and celebrating their successes also featured.

Delegates from a wide range of backgrounds spoke not only as representatives of their organisations but also drawing on their personal experiences of mental health, wellbeing and happiness.

One delegate said, 'There was a wealth of knowledge, it shows what we can do when we get together to share ideas and find solutions.'

Lambeth First is now working to update the new strategy based on the discussions. The strategy will ensure that the wellbeing of all people in the borough becomes central to the thinking behind the delivery of all services in the borough.

For more information about the day, to contribute your ideas or to obtain a copy of the report of the findings please email wellbeing@lambethpct.nhs.uk and for more information and tips on wellbeing go to www.lambethwellbeing.co.uk

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