Small Group Project - Special Event - Fri 18 May 2007

Groups are good for you and taking control of your health and wellbeing is fun! This was the message that over seventy members of the Small Group Project groups went away with after the annual Special Event on Friday 18 May.

This year the Special Event was held in conjunction with Tameside and Glossop’s Primary Care Trust’s ‘Health is for Life’ festival. It was a packed day, with Dr Stuart Bootle kicking off the proceedings by giving an insight into the workings of the NHS. He highlighted the comparatively small amount of time we spend with health care professionals, even when we have permanent conditions like asthma, heart problems or diabetes. The groups thought his session ‘informative, interesting and amusing’. No doubt his recollections of his own experience of being diagnosed with diabetes in a veterinary practise gave raise to the ‘amusing’!

The workshops followed with an opportunity to experience activities that can only enhance our wellbeing– namely T’ai Chi, Laughter (yes – laughing is definitely good for you!), Extend (gentle, seated exercise) and a wool spinning session (‘so relaxing’).

Then on to the highlight of the day THE FOOD. Imaginatively described as ‘a nice balance of life and death’ – there were plenty of healthy options but also a chance to have ‘a bit of what you fancy’ (which always does you good!). As all tucked in, there was a lively Salsa demonstration to watch, and a few brave souls to join in with, as well as a myriad of complimentary therapies to enjoy in ‘taster’ sessions.

And so it was that many of the attendees floated back from their therapy to hear Dr Raj Patel explore just how membership of a group can increase your sense of wellbeing, happiness and even lifespan!

The group members then gave us an insight into what they do and how much they achieve – leading one lady to comment ‘I feel inspired after listening to what others are doing, if not a little overawed’. Well, that’s where the Small Group Project comes in – don’t feel overawed! We are here to help in all those areas that groups may find daunting – if only through lack of experience! We can help in so many areas – from helping you sort out a social trip for your group or a place to meet to helping it become a charity or employ a worker. If you are a small group or are hinking
about starting a group you can call us on 01663 736426 (Sandy) or 01663 736427 (Nancy).

See also Special Event April 2005 - September 2003

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