Bryncynon undertook a comprehensive community survey in 1999, and again in 2004. The results revealed some shocking local health statistics. The Healthy Living programme described here is a direct response to these problems, and a very serious attempt to use all techniques and practices to reverse the worrying indicators of an unhealthy community.

"Let us help you with your health and well being"

The community consultation highlighted a number of health issues which we clearly need to address. We were obviously aware of the high levels of ill health in the area which has been the result of years of social and economic decline. The consultation raised issues such as high levels of long term illness, a high percentage of young people with substance misuse and mental health problems as well as problems in relation to sexual health issues.

For the last three years we have been developing our partnerships with health professionals who are now recognising the valuable role community regeneration and development can play in improving the quality of life and health for local people. In 2001 The Strategy made a successful bid to the New Opportunities Fund to develop a Healthy Living Centre which aims to help local people become healthier by developing a range of programmes to support their physical and mental well-being.

Yoga, Aerobics, Health forums, Environmental improvements, Smoking cessation, Oral hygiene, First Aid, Swimming & Soft play for under 5s, Healthy eating advice, Healthy living discussions. We provide courses and support on Maths and English SATs, Diabetes support group, Youth Health, Community mothers, Advice & guidance for training, self employment, careers and jobs.

The main focus of the Healthy Living Centre is:

• To provide families with support to care for their children's well-being and make improvements to their own lifestyles and well-being.
• To provide young people and young adults with the information and support they need to make informed decisions on factors which could harm their health and future life choices.
• To assist carers of people with chronic health problems to maintain their own health.
• To assist people with already existing health problems to take positive actions to improve their lifestyles and manage their health problems.
  

Key features of our work·

• The development of the baby clinic and child milk sales.
• The setting up of a general health clinic in our health centre.
• A Community Consultation on the development of our Healthy Living Centre proposal.
• A multi agency partnership including the Local Health Group, Community Health Council, Patients Participation Group, Health Promotion, Bro Taf Health Authority, North Glamorgan NHS Trust, Local Health Alliance, Interlink (Voluntary Services Council) and many other health and social care organisations.
• We facilitated a Local Health Alliance Roadshow where people were able to identify and prioritise their health needs for the health partners in the area.
• We accessed funding to develop a cervical cytology service for the area.
• We accessed support from the Local Health Group for a part time Drug & Alcohol worker in the area for the next three years.
• We accessed funding to support the development of a Patients Participation Group in the area.
• We are members of North Glamorgan's NHS Trust Public Involvement Group and contributed to their first public involvement strategy.
• We developed a memorandum of understanding with North Glamorgan NHS Trust.
• We participated in public forums on the future shape of health services in the Cynon Valley.
• We are members of the Rhondda Cynon Taff Health and Social Care Network.
• The community decides what is needed.
• Community members will be encouraged and supported to become involved in all aspects of our Healthy Living agenda, thus ensuring our work is fully embedded in the community and sustainable.
  

Strategy Healthy Living Centre In Partrnership With Abercynon Sports Centre

Places may be limited please ring Julie, Keri or Meriel on 01443 475120 to book your place.

Future Development

• To develop our Healthy Living Centre building.
• To develop the ideas in our Healthy Living Centre proposal which includes; focusing on preventative projects, support and advice services, training of health advocacy workers, support for children and families, young people, people with chronic diseases/disabilities and the elderly.
• To strengthen our partnership and participate in meetings with health providers to ensure that we gain access to the services and facilities to meet the needs and interests of local people.
• To advocate for the health needs of community members, facilitating campaigns on behalf of the community where appropriate.
• To increase the skills and knowledge of individuals to identify the issues that affect their health and seek appropriate support and/or action.