Health and Wellbeing
Dear all,
Please find the February Wellbeing in Partnership e-bulletin below aimed to help keep you updated as it includes information we’ve received relating to local services/support, events, training, funding and more – all relevant to Redditch and/or Bromsgrove District.
Please take a moment to glance through and pick out what’s useful to you or your team….
Local Government Reorganisation (LGR)
Government Consultation on Worcestershire Councils – Have your say!
The Government launched a consultation earlier this month asking people, businesses and local organisations for their opinions on the 2 proposals that will reshape the way council services are delivered across the county.
Two proposals were submitted in November 2025 following an invitation from Government to set out ideas for how services currently delivered separately by the County Council and district authorities could instead be provided by one or more unitary councils.
Bromsgrove District and Redditch Borough Councils have worked with Malvern Hills District, Worcester City and Wychavon District Councils to submit the ‘Transforming Worcestershire’ proposal to create two unitary councils. Under this model, one authority would serve the north of the county (Bromsgrove, Redditch and Wyre Forest), while another would cover the south (Malvern Hills, Worcester City and Wychavon). An alternative proposal, ‘One Worcestershire’ has also been submitted by Worcestershire County Council and Wyre Forest District Council which would see one unitary authority for the whole of the County. Please do take this final opportunity to provide your feedback to the Government. Both proposals are available here www.transformingworcestershire.co.uk and the link to the Government’s consultation is Local government reorganisation in Worcestershire – GOV.UK and runs until 11.59pm on 26 March. A decision by Government on which proposal will be chosen is expected in July 2026.
*Final Reminder* Household Support Fund (HSF) Phase 7 – *Ending soon*
Household Support Fund Phase 7 runs to 31 March 2026. There is still time for eligible Bromsgrove and Redditch residents to apply for support with household costs and details on how to apply can be found below. Please be aware that schemes are likely to close to applications before 31 March. You can help ensure remaining funding reaches those most in need by highlighting this support to them.
(Note: From April 2026, the Government is launching the new Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) in England. Further details on CRF will be shared in future bulletins once available.)
Citizens Advice Bromsgrove and Redditch HSF7 Schemes – help with food and other essentials**Open – please check website for latest updates**
If you are working with any resident that is struggling and needs support with food and other household essentials, they can apply to our local Household Support Fund – Citizens Advice Bromsgrove & Redditch (cabr.org.uk). Citizens Advice Bromsgrove and Redditch is working closely with Bromsgrove District and Redditch Borough Councils to deliver this support which offers post office vouchers for eligible households. Bromsgrove residents can apply here: Bromsgrove Household Support Fund and Redditch residents can apply here: Redditch Household Support Fund.
Act on Energy – Worcestershire HSF7 Scheme** Open – there’s not long left to apply! **
This scheme offers qualifying residents across Worcestershire support with energy and water bills and debts, plus heating system repairs or replacements. Eligibility criteria for support is not restricted to solely vulnerable households in receipt of benefits, but criteria will be applied for the different elements of support on offer. Further details are online and residents can apply by calling 0800 988 2881 or via an online form. Please help raise awareness across Bromsgrove and Redditch – social media image attached or use this link and share
Worcestershire Advice Network (WAN) Scheme – £75 Cash voucher for eligible pensioners, disabled and carers**Available to Bromsgrove and Redditch residents**
Worcestershire Advice Network (made up of our local Age UKs, Citizens Advice and Disability Information Advice Line) are offering a £75 cash voucher to eligible pensioners NOT in receipt of Pension Credit, people with disabilities or a long term health condition of any age, carers of any age and those who have high energy usage medical devices. Some may be eligible for more than one CASH voucher. There are just a few simple questions to find out if they are eligible. This scheme is being administered by Age UK Wyvern and supported locally by Age UK North Worcestershire and Citizens Advice Bromsgrove and Redditch. Further information, including contact telephone numbers, can be found at: Worcestershire Advice Network | Advice services working in Partnership.
Cost of Living – Other Local Information
Business Cards of Useful Contact Numbers – Bromsgrove and Redditch Free to collect
We know some residents simply don’t know where to turn for support which is why this small and discreet business card of useful contacts across Redditch and Bromsgrove was first produced (and updated end of last year). You can pick up your FREE supply for your service users. Simply collect a bundle from Redditch Council’s Customer Services in the Kingfisher Centre (5 George Walk behind Primark) or Bromsgrove Council’s Customer Services at Parkside. Let’s work together to get these out far and wide to help ensure our residents know where to turn to for trusted information, advice and support, should they need it. A poster version is attached – please feel free to display and share that too!
Act on Energy – Energy Advice Service Free for our residents
Act on Energy works with the Councils to provide the Bromsgrove District Council’s Energy Advice Service and the Redditch Borough Council’s Energy Advice Service which is FREE to all our residents. Independent and impartial advice is available to help residents with concerns such as: cutting energy bills; minimising home energy use; reducing carbon emissions; referrals for energy saving measures; and avoiding scams. Act on Energy can also help eligible residents access government grants. We are aware many residents are not sure who to trust and may not be aware of this award winning charity, so please help spread the word and direct to Act on Energy – Freephone 0800 988 288 or email advice@actonenergy.org.uk. There are also free online resources, hints and tips available too.
Cost of living webpages – so our residents know where to turn for support
Don’t Forget… There is more information on our cost of living webpages on Redditch Borough and Bromsgrove District Councils’ websites at: www.bromsgrove.gov.uk/costofliving and www.redditch.gov.uk/costofliving. See something missing on the webpages? Let us know as they can be updated anytime.
Services / Support – Information Updates
The Orange Button Scheme – Please help raise awareness!
There are now over 1,000 people across Herefordshire and Worcestershire wearing an orange button – they are trained to listen if you’re finding life tough or are worried about someone. They can share information and resources that can help. Partners and orange button wearers have given clear feedback; more people in our communities need to know what the Orange Button means. We need your help to spread the word! All the resources you need to help raise awareness are here: Herefordshire & Worcestershire Orange Button Community Scheme – Resource Library. If you have other ideas you want to explore please email: suicidepreventionprogramme@worcestershire.gov.uk. Interested in being an orange button wearer? Use this link to find out more or contact the team if you have any questions.
*NEW* Mum & Mini Social Stroll – Bromsgrove
A friendly weekly walk for mums-to-be, new mums and mums with young children is starting this March. The group will meet at Sanders Park (main entrance) at 11.30am every Thursday to enjoy a relaxed 45 minute stroll led by volunteer walk leader, Mandy! The walks will provide a chance to meet other mums, build connections whilst enjoying fresh air, gentle movement, and friendly conversations.
No booking needed – just turn up on the day. Make sure you have comfortable shoes, weather appropriate clothes, buggies or slingers – little walkers all welcome! Have a question? Contact Pear Tree Family Hub on 01527 835775. Flyer attached – please help promote.
WorkWell – Did you know?….
WorkWell is a joint scheme from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and the Department for Health and Social Care (DHSC). The aim of WorkWell is to connect people with health conditions and/or disabilities to support services so they can get the tailored help they need to stay in or return to work. If you are supporting anyone who is struggling to remain in work or looking for work and finding it difficult due to a health condition, a Work and Health Coach might be able to assist. Further details about WorkWell can be found online. Local information on how to refer can be found below:
For those registered at a GP surgery in Redditch and Wythall (listed below), Work and Health Coaches are hosted by Carers & Communities and referrals can be made using the following links:
- Nightingales PCN Referral Form (Crabbs Cross Surgery, The Medical Centre Crabbs Cross, Hollyoaks Medical Centre, Hollywood Medical Centre, The Ridgeway Surgery, Winyates Health Centre).
- Kingfisher PCN Referral Form (Elgar House Surgery, Hillview Medical Centre, Maple View Surgery, St Stephens Surgery, The Bridge Surgery, The Dow Surgery).
If you have any questions in relation to Redditch and Wythall provision or referrals, contact Carers & Communities direct at workwell@carersandcommunities.org.uk or call 01905 751340.
For those who are registered at one of the nine Bromsgrove District GP surgeries (listed below), referrals (including self-referrals) can be made using the following link:
- Bromsgrove PCN Referral Form (Barnt Green Surgery, Catshill Surgery, Churchfields Surgery, Cornhill Surgery, Davenal House Surgery, The Glebelands Surgery, New Road Surgery in Bromsgrove, New Road Surgery in Rubery, St John’s Surgery)
Further information can be found at: WorkWell :: Herefordshire and Worcestershire Integrated Care System. Please help raise awareness – poster attached for display / to share.
Bromsgrove Older Peoples Forum – New Day from March!
From next month, the Bromsgrove Older Peoples’ Forum will take place on the 2nd Thursday of every month 10am-12noon at Chandler Court, Bromsgrove, B61 8DT (previously a Wednesday). The group will still provide an opportunity to meet new people, receive information on health, local services and events, community updates, plus regular guest speakers. Refreshments available each week in the warm and friendly environment. New members always welcome! Have a question? Or would you like to be a guest speaker? Contact Katie at katie.kehoe1@nhs.net. Flyer attached – please help promote.
BDHT – 360 Support Team in Bromsgrove – Updated Referral Form
The 360 Support Team at Bromsgrove District Housing Trust (BDHT) has updated its referral form (attached), redesigned to better capture the goals and desired outcomes for both referrers and customers. The 360 team consists of 4 Intensive Support Officers, 3 Budget Coaches and 2 Community Coaches (serving Wythall and Burcot). Officer allocation following receipt of referrals is subject to eligibility.
Did you know?… *Support Officers: Available to all residents (not just BDHT tenants) within BDHT’s housing catchment area; *Budget Coaches: Exclusively available to BDHT customers.
They also host a weekly drop-in session every Wednesday from 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm at The Pod. This session is open to everyone. To provide a comprehensive support network, partners including Citizens Advice, The Basement Project, and Social Prescribers are also on-site to assist with a wide range of needs. For general enquiries and information please email: 360support@bdht.co.uk.
Recovery United Network (R.U.N) Our Space CIC
Funded by the North Worcestershire Community Safety Partnership, R.U.N. Our Space CIC provides safe, supportive environments for women who have been affected by domestic abuse, poor mental health, isolation and low self-esteem. They are dedicated to establishing a vibrant and inclusive Community Hub for women with a unique approach, informed by lived experience to deliver bespoke programmes and advocacy services. This women’s-only support covers Bromsgrove, Redditch and Wyre Forest and are running a physical space on the 1st and 3rd Monday of every month 11am – 1pm at: Destination Zone, 132a High St, Bromsgrove B61 8ES. Referrals into the service can be made via Email: recovery.united.network@gmail.com or Phone: 07497 082543 (Javina Greene). Further information can be found in the flyer attached (in various formats) and professionals wanting to find out more can get in touch with Javina here.
Redditch Priority Neighbourhood Engagement Summary – Feb 2026
Public Health at Worcestershire County Council have shared a summary of feedback, that can be found attached, capturing themes and insights from the various engagements opportunities that took place between August and December 2025 across three Priority Neighbourhood Development (PND) areas in Redditch. If you have any questions or would like further information about the PND work taking place in Redditch, please contact Anthony Pridding, Public Health Practitioner at apridding@worcestershire.gov.uk.
Police SNT Contacts
Want to know who your local contact is at the Police? Please find attached details of the West Mercia Police Safer Neighbourhood Teams (SNT) for Bromsgrove and Redditch.
Love Volunteering – New Worcestershire Portal
Bromsgrove and Redditch Network (BARN) is your local Volunteer Centre. They are helping Worcestershire County Council and other partners develop a new countywide portal called ‘Love Volunteering’ and more information is attached. Work is continuing to finalise the setup of the site which will provide an additional avenue to promote volunteering. BARN are and will continue to be able to promote your opportunities – you can contact them at volunteer@barn.org.uk or https://barn.org.uk/volunteercentre/
Application Station at Woodrow Community Hub – Redditch – Employability Service for young people (16-25)
The Basement Project’s employability service, Application Station, will be at Woodrow Community Hub monthly on a Wednesday between 10am and 12noon on the following dates: March 18th, April 22nd, May 20th (with more sessions to follow if the drop-ins are well attended). Application Station aims to guide young people aged 16-25 who are not in employment, education or training into job roles, volunteering and activity. Please share with any young people you are working with who might benefit. If you have any questions, please contact Anna Duffy at anna.d@basementproject.org.uk
ReNEW Creative Producers– Opportunities for young people (16-25) – Applications now Open!
ReNEW: Sharing Stories, Shaping Futures is an Arts Council funded cultural development initiative led by the North East Worcestershire Cultural Compact and delivered by Bromsgrove and Redditch Councils. The project aims to empower young people to develop their skills in the arts through creative skills training, apprenticeships, and co-produced projects. There are 30 spaces available for young people (16-25) to join the project as Creative Producers, who will work towards community-driven projects using visual, digital, and performing arts. The groups will work alongside professional artists to design and deliver public art in the heart of the community, celebrating local heritage and fostering cultural inclusion across Redditch and Bromsgrove. This is a unique opportunity to develop skills, gain confidence and make a real impact in the community through arts and culture. Further details attached or visit: linktr.ee/renewcreative Applications close 16 March. Please help promote – poster attached.
Children’s Mental Health
Although Children’s Mental Health Week (9th-15th February 2026) has passed, we wanted to share the attached email which helpfully outlines the range of help and support available in Worcestershire for children and young people. It also includes a short briefing on the impact of child exploitation for anyone working with children and young people. Please see attached.
Togetherness – Parenting Resources for Schools and Families
Please find attached the Spring Term Togetherness update — a set of free, NHS‑developed resources to support children’s emotional wellbeing and strengthen parent–child relationships. These resources are fully funded in Worcestershire and can be accessed by families at any time through Worcestershire | Togetherness – Togetherness – using free access code PARENTSROCK. This term’s pack focuses on big emotions, healthy sleep, anxiety, kindness and teenage brain development.
Craft Group – Acts of Kindness – Redditch *Free*
This group runs every Thursday, 1.30-2.30pm at Acts of Kindness (AoK), No.24 Church Green East. It is free to attend with all materials and refreshments provided. A flyer with further details is attached – please help promote.
Healthy Worcestershire *Please help promote*
A quick reminder about Healthy Worcestershire, a free health improvement programme (funded by Public Health) that offers weekly sessions that are free to join and cover topics such as: Improving strength and balance, supporting mental wellbeing, social activities and healthy eating. The aim is to help anyone aged over 18 who lives in the County to be active and healthy and have fun meeting new people in their neighbourhood. Residents can simply turn up on the day or they can book a place by emailing Healthy.Worcestershire@nhs.net or calling 01905 928185 or 0800 772 0307. Venue details of all the sessions, plus further details, can also be found at: healthyworcestershire.org.uk, but for convenience below are the local sessions – please help promote.
Bromsgrove Sessions:
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Redditch Sessions:
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Plus…FREE Online Physical Activity Sessions
In addition to the above mentioned sessions, Healthy Worcestershire offers hybrid sessions on Tuesday evenings from 6:45pm – 8:00pm where participants can join in virtually, allowing them to take part in physical activity sessions from the comfort of their home. Find out more here: Hybrid Physical Activity Sessions – Healthy Worcestershire’s Services.
And….FREE Virtual Nutritional and Lifestyle Course
A rolling 12 week weight management rolling programme is also running as part of Healthy Worcestershire. The free virtual sessions run on Mondays 1-2pm or 5.30-6.30pm to support weight loss and keep it off. Find out more here: Nutrition and Lifestyle – Healthy Worcestershire’s Services.
Finally….FREE Stop Smoking Support
There are specialist advisors available giving free expert help to stop smoking as part of the Healthy Worcestershire provision. Find out more at: Stop Smoking Support – Healthy Worcestershire’s Services
Events / Roadshows / Multi-Agency Drop-ins
Skills Expo 2026 – For young people, their parents and carers
Skills Expo 2026 is Worcestershire’s largest careers, skills and training event, bringing together young people, parents and carers, employers, training providers and education partners under one roof. Formerly known as the Worcestershire Skills Show, the Expo has evolved into a flagship countywide event designed to inspire ambition, raise awareness of opportunities and help people make informed choices about their future. In addition to school visits during 4th & 5th March, young people can attend on 4th March 4-7pm with their parents / carers. Taking place at Sixways Stadium, the Skills Expo provides a vibrant, interactive environment where visitors can explore career pathways, speak directly to employers and providers, and discover how skills learned today can lead to real opportunities tomorrow. Further details of this FREE event can be found at: Skills Expo 2026 | Worcestershire County Council
Improving Digital Confidence Sessions – Age UK North Worcestershire & AbilityNet – Free Digital Drop-ins for Bromsgrove older residents
Age UK North Worcestershire’s Amphlett Hall Computer Club runs its monthly Digital Drop In sessions (held on the first Wednesday of every month, 1.30pm-3.30pm) for anybody seeking help with their mobile phone, tablet or laptop. To help with increasing awareness and improving digital confidence and skills, they are working in partnership with AbilityNet, a charity which focuses on supporting older people and those with disabilities to get online. The first part of their Digital Drop Ins for March (4th), April (1st) and June (3rd) will include a ‘themed’ talk from Helen Hodges from AbilityNet. The focus for the 4th March is Curious about what your phone or tablet can really do? Attached is a poster for the first session, but key details are as follows: Bring your own phone or tablet on Wednesday 4 March, 1.30-3.30pm at Amphlett Hall, Crown Close, Bromsgrove, B61 8DW. These monthly Drop In sessions are free, but donations are welcomed – please share with anyone who may benefit from attending.
*Reminder*Drop-In Support Session – Maple View Medical Practice in Redditch – open to all residents across Redditch!
The Primary Care Networks (PCN) in Redditch are holding a Drop-In Session on Tuesday 10 March, 9.30am – 12.30pm at Maple View Medical Practice, Church Hill, Redditch, B98 9AA. Citizens Advice, WorkWell Herefordshire & Worcestershire, Social Prescribers, Carers & Communities and Act on Energy will be available to provide free support to local residents. You do not have to be registered with a local GP practice to attend. Further information can be found on the flyer attached. Please help promote
Your Health Bus visits – Charford and Catshill – Bromsgrove
Bromsgrove and District Primary Care Network (PCN) have arranged for a Health Bus to be out in the community as follows:
- Golden Cross Lane, Catshill, B61 0JZ on Monday 9 March, 10:00am – 4:00pm
- The Pod, Humphrey Avenue, Charford, B60 3JB on Wednesday 11 March, 12:30pm – 2:30pm (BDHT Weekly drop-in available at The Pod on the same day!)
The Health Bus offers a welcoming space where residents can get free basic health checks and receive advice to support wellbeing. Social Prescribers will also be in attendance to provide support and information. Please help promote – flyers attached.
Bromsgrove Pensioners’ Fair 2026 – 26 March 10am-2pm at Ryland Centre
A quick reminder that retirees across Bromsgrove District will once again be able to access help and support at the MP’s Pensioner Fair. It’s taking place on Thursday 26th March from 10am until 2pm at the Ryland Centre, New Road, Bromsgrove, B60 2JS. Poster attached and further details can be found at: www.bradleythomas.org.uk/events/pensioners-fair-2026.
World Health Day – Bromsgrove Event – 7 April 2026 – want to be involved?
Everyone Active are planning a World Health Day Event at Bromsgrove Sports and Leisure Centre (BSLC) in April and are keen for the event to be co-designed with local partners so that it reflects local priorities and helps address health inequalities in our community. Further details are attached. If you would like to be involved or find out more, contact Sarah Edwards at SarahEdwards@everyoneactive.com.
BDHT Family Fun Days – Bromsgrove – Provisional Save the Dates!
The team at Bromsgrove District Housing Trust (BDHT) have provided provisional dates for these popular family fun days, please save the dates as follows:
- Friday 31 July 2026 – Catshill
- Friday 14 August 2026 – Sidemoor
- Friday 28 August 206 – Charford
For partners that have attended previously a booking form will be emailed to you early Spring. If there are any partners that have not been involved previously, but would like to get involved, please email 360support@bdht.co.uk and you will be added to the mailing list.
Training / Courses / Workshops
Stand Up Step Out – Free Training for young people
Acts of Kindness and CAP are working with HeadGym to offer a 10-week training course for young people aged 12 – 18 years who want to learn soft skills which will help them into the world of work. Skills such as budgeting, ironing, shoe polishing, CV writing, and interview techniques. Course runs from 14 April to 23 June 10am-12pm. For more information or to book a place, please contact Neil Ordish at neil@headgym.co.uk. Flyers can be found attached – please spread the word. (Based in Redditch, but open to both Redditch and Bromsgrove young people)
Act on Energy –1 hour Online Energy Awareness Presentations for Frontline workers – only 1 date remaining – Don’t miss out!
Act on Energy are running FREE 1 hour online energy awareness presentations for anyone who works in the community – whether that is healthcare, social care, voluntary sector or any role where you work with residents who may be struggling with their energy bills. The last date is 2nd March 12.30-1.30pm. For further details or to book a place go to: Energy Awareness for Professionals | Eventbrite.
DWP – Disability Services Advocacy Team Awareness Sessions – Free training for partner agencies
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is offering Disability Awareness Sessions for external partners during March and April 2026. The training is free to join; you just need to register but be quick as places book up fast. Further information can be found attached, along with details on how to register.
Pathfinder Training – Responding to a Disclosure of Sexual Violence – Free
Pathfinder is a joint project between WMRSASC and Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust, offering FREE training to local professionals. On Thursday 5th of March, 9:30am – 12:30pm they are offering online training on Responding to a disclosure of sexual violence ½ day. Booking can be made via the link or alternatively email pathfinder@wmrsasc.org.uk for further information.
Exploitation and Vulnerability Training – Free
West Mercia Police are offering free Exploitation and Vulnerability training that is available both online via Teams and in-person. The workshops aim to cover the various aspects of vulnerability and the signs and symptoms of exploitation and are available for both professionals and parents / guardians living or working in Worcestershire (and Herefordshire, Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin). To find out more or book a place, please visit Exploitation and vulnerability training | West Mercia Police.
Equality, Diversity and Human Rights Online Training – Free
This free online training course is designed to give you an in-depth understanding of how to promote diversity and inclusion and eliminate discrimination within your organisation/workforce – it’s suitable for all staff, including volunteers. The course covers Equality, diversity and human rights; Equality Act 2010; Creating an inclusive environment; Challenging prejudice, discrimination and unfairness and much more. Places are limited and allocated on a first come, first served basis. If these FREE training opportunities are useful for you, a team member or one of your volunteers, contact BARN at office@barn.org.uk.
HOW College – Community Courses / Digital & IT Skills / Cyber Security / ESOL / Adult Maths & English
Please find attached details of a variety of Community Courses running until Easter across Bromsgrove and Redditch. Also, applications are still being accepted for the following courses: Digital & IT Skills, Cyber Security, Adult English & Maths and ESOL – Details on how to find out more, or apply, can be found in the flyers attached.
Funding
Quick reminder…Do you know about the Public Health Community Grant Programme?
There are various small funds available, up to £3K, within the Public Health Community Grant Programme and details can be found on the Worcestershire County Council’s website. For example, there are Community Wellbeing Grants (which are all about backing brilliant local ideas that help people live happier, healthier lives), there is the Micro Grant scheme (offering up to £250 for resident led activities), there are Educational Wellbeing Grants (for educational settings) and more. All the information you need can be found online at: Community Wellbeing Programme | Worcestershire County Council.
Have a question? Or maybe you have an idea but are not sure if it’s eligible? Get in touch with the team to discuss in advance of applying at: HWBAdmin@worcestershire.gov.uk
Other Newsletters
In case you missed them, please find the following attached (or link provided), in no particular order…
Both Districts / Countywide:
- DWP Updates – 5 February & 18 February 2026 & DWP Touchbase – 13 February 2026
- Young Solutions Newsletter – February 2026 & Young Solutions E-Bulletin – w/e 13 February 2026 & w/e 20th February 2026
- NHS Herefordshire and Worcestershire Involvement Network Update – 2 February 2026
- Public Health – Worcestershire-Health-Champions-Newsletter-February-2026-.pdf
- Worcestershire Family Hubs – Bromsgrove and Redditch Edition – February 2026
Redditch:
- Carers Careline February 2026 Newsletter – 2026-02-February-Carers-Careline-newsletter.pdf
- Reimagine Redditch – February News
We hope you find the above useful. Don’t forget, if you have information relating to Bromsgrove and/or Redditch which you would like to be included in a future partnership bulletin, simply email: partnership@bromsgroveandredditch.gov.uk