This Healthy Heart Grant project has now finished, read on for the project highlights.

The Problem:

A high proportion of residents in Bransholme, Hull are at risk of premature death and an impaired quality of life due to poor physical and mental health. A survey within the area highlighted the need for supportive lifestyle interventions, including education and physical and social activities. There is a lack of such opportunities in the area, and with Hull not having a Tier 2 Weight Management provision, no support is available to those who wish to make positive lifestyle changes. This is where Neighbourhood Network stepped in with their HU7’s Healthy Hearts project

The Project:

The HU7’s Healthy Hearts project aimed to reduce the risk of heart disease in the local area by improving people’s health and wellbeing through a series of activities. The project delivered cookery classes, physical activity sessions, and educational workshops that focused on different health topics such as reading food labels and smoking and alcohol consumption. The participants also had access to one-to-one coaching, talking therapy sessions and personalised support, as well as having their health measurements taken pre, mid and post-project.

The Benefits:

This project managed to successfully reduce beneficiaries heart disease risk factors. Many participants saw reductions in body mass index and blood pressure. 65% of participants recorded a decreased systolic blood pressure, and 53% had a decreased diastolic blood pressure. As well as this, all beneficiaries reported improvements in their mental health and stated that they now have increased self-esteem, optimism, and energy levels and have found a sense of community. Many have committed to continuing their progress by exercising more regularly, adopting balanced diets, and staying engaged in group activities. The participants have also formed their own walking group to continue after the project.