09/01/2004
In the heart of West Sussex, residents have a dedicated ally in their journey towards improved health and happiness: Arun Wellbeing. This vital service, delivered by Arun District Council since 2009, stands as a beacon of preventative care and community support. It operates in close partnership with West Sussex County Council, a collaboration that underpins its continued success and broad reach across the district. For over a decade, Arun Wellbeing has been instrumental in empowering individuals to make significant, positive lifestyle changes, helping them to lead longer, healthier lives.
The service's commitment to the community was recently reaffirmed with secured funding for an additional five years, ensuring its invaluable support remains accessible. This continued investment highlights the recognised importance of local wellbeing initiatives in addressing public health challenges and fostering a thriving community. Whether you're looking to embrace healthier habits, manage chronic conditions, or simply gain more information about improving your overall wellbeing, Arun Wellbeing offers a friendly, professional hand to guide you.
What Exactly is Arun Wellbeing?
Arun Wellbeing is a comprehensive prevention and wellbeing service, a cornerstone of community health provision within the Arun District. Established in 2009, it forms a crucial part of the wider West Sussex Wellbeing programme, a collaborative effort between West Sussex Public Health and the seven district and borough councils across the county. This partnership model ensures a coordinated and effective approach to public health, with Arun Wellbeing specifically tailored to meet the needs of its local residents.
The service's longevity and impact are largely due to the substantial annual contribution from West Sussex County Council, which allocates over £400,000 each year to fund the expert advice and support it provides. This sustained financial backing underscores a shared commitment to improving health outcomes and promoting a culture of wellbeing throughout the region. For over fourteen years, the dedicated team at Arun Wellbeing has been at the forefront of helping thousands of residents navigate their personal health journeys, offering practical tools and encouragement every step of the way.
The Pillars of Support: How Arun Wellbeing Helps You Thrive
Arun Wellbeing offers a diverse range of free support services, meticulously designed to address various aspects of physical and mental health. These programmes are built upon evidence-based approaches, delivered by experienced advisors who understand the unique challenges individuals face when striving for healthier living. The recent agreement to extend funding for a further five years ensures that these vital services will continue to be a cornerstone of community health in the Arun district.
Making Positive Lifestyle Changes
The core of Arun Wellbeing's mission is to assist residents in making sustainable changes that profoundly impact their health. This includes a variety of areas, each with tailored support:
- Taking Up Gentle Exercise: Understanding that not everyone is ready for intense workouts, Arun Wellbeing encourages and facilitates access to gentle exercise programmes. These initiatives are designed to be accessible and enjoyable, helping individuals to increase their physical activity levels gradually and safely, improving mobility, mood, and overall fitness.
- Stopping Smoking: Quitting smoking is one of the most significant steps an individual can take to improve their health. Arun Wellbeing provides expert, non-judgmental support, offering strategies, resources, and encouragement to help residents successfully break free from nicotine addiction.
- Cutting Back on Alcohol: For many, reducing alcohol consumption can lead to substantial health benefits. The service offers practical advice and support to help individuals assess their drinking habits, set realistic goals, and implement strategies for responsible alcohol reduction.
- Eating More Healthily: Good nutrition is fundamental to wellbeing. Arun Wellbeing provides guidance on balanced diets and healthy eating habits. This includes the acclaimed WISE Weight Information and Sensible Eating course, which equips participants with the knowledge and skills to make informed food choices and manage their weight effectively.
Specialised Programmes for Specific Needs
Beyond general lifestyle advice, Arun Wellbeing also targets specific health concerns through dedicated programmes:
- Pre-Diabetes Information Sessions: For individuals identified as being at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, Arun Wellbeing offers crucial information sessions. These sessions empower participants with knowledge about pre-diabetes, its risks, and, most importantly, provide actionable steps and lifestyle modifications to significantly reduce their chances of progressing to Type 2 diabetes.
- Falls Prevention Programme: Recognising the importance of maintaining independence and preventing injuries, £30,000 of the recent funding has been specifically earmarked for a falls prevention programme. This vital initiative is delivered in partnership with Age UK and Freedom Leisure, targeting older adults and those at risk, providing exercises and advice to improve balance, strength, and confidence.
- Targeted Activities Programme: An additional £10,000 per year has been allocated for Freedom Leisure to run an activities programme in targeted areas. This ensures that wellbeing initiatives reach communities that may face greater barriers to accessing health support, promoting inclusivity and wider participation.
Funding, Partnership, and Community Impact
The continued operation and expansion of Arun Wellbeing are testament to its proven effectiveness and the unwavering support it receives. A significant grant of £414,024 from West Sussex County Council has been secured as part of the five-year agreement, a commitment strongly endorsed by Arun District Council’s Housing and Wellbeing Committee. This substantial funding ensures the service can continue its crucial work, fostering a healthier community across the district.
Councillor Jacky Pendleton, Chair of the Housing and Wellbeing Committee and Deputy Leader of the Council, articulated the profound value of the service: “The Arun Wellbeing Service plays a vital role in addressing local health inequalities and supporting residents to lead a happier and healthier life. I’ve seen first-hand the real difference the service makes to people’s wellbeing so we’re delighted to support the service and see that great work continue for at least another five years.” This sentiment reflects the real-world impact Arun Wellbeing has on individual lives and the broader community, reinforcing its position as an indispensable local resource.
Accessing Arun Wellbeing: Your First Step to a Healthier You
Engaging with Arun Wellbeing is designed to be straightforward and accessible, ensuring that residents can easily connect with the support they need. The service prioritises a personalised approach, beginning with an initial conversation to understand your specific circumstances and how best to assist you.
How to Access Our Service
The most efficient way to initiate contact and begin your journey with Arun Wellbeing is by completing their referral form. This secure online form allows you to provide essential information, which an adviser will then review.
- Self-Referrals and Professional Referrals: Whether you are seeking support for yourself or are a professional referring a patient or client, the secure online form is the primary gateway. Once submitted, one of the dedicated Arun Wellbeing Advisers will contact you to discuss your provided information and explore the various ways the service can benefit you.
- Enquiries for Workplace Wellbeing: For businesses or organisations interested in promoting employee health, a separate form is available for Workplace Wellbeing visits. This allows companies to arrange an initial enquiry and discuss bespoke wellbeing programmes tailored to their workforce.
- Referrals for Falls Prevention: If your primary interest is in the falls prevention sessions, it is recommended to contact Everyone Health directly to book your place. This ensures you are quickly connected with the specialised programme.
Arun Wellbeing Contact Information
While the referral forms are the preferred method for initial contact regarding service access, general enquiries can be made through various channels:
| Contact Method | Details | Important Note |
|---|---|---|
| Phone | 01903 737862 | Leave a message if unanswered; someone will return your call. |
| General Enquiries Email (address not provided for privacy) | DO NOT include any personal details in emails. Personal information must only be submitted via the secure referral forms. | |
| Postal Address | Arun Wellbeing, Arun Civic Centre, Maltravers Road, Littlehampton, BN17 5LF | For general correspondence, not for referrals with personal details. |
The Arun Wellbeing service operates Monday to Friday, excluding Bank Holidays. If you are already assigned to an Arun Wellbeing Adviser, it is always best to contact them directly using their specific line or email address to avoid any delays.
Frequently Asked Questions About Arun Wellbeing
Who can use the Arun Wellbeing service?
The Arun Wellbeing service is available to residents within the Arun District of West Sussex who are looking to improve their health and wellbeing. This includes individuals seeking support for lifestyle changes, managing specific health risks, or participating in preventative programmes.
Is the support offered by Arun Wellbeing free?
Yes, the support and services offered by Arun Wellbeing, including courses like WISE and advice on stopping smoking or alcohol reduction, are provided free of charge to eligible residents. This is made possible through funding from West Sussex County Council and Arun District Council.
How long has Arun Wellbeing been operating?
Arun Wellbeing has been delivering prevention and wellbeing services to residents since 2009, making it a well-established and experienced service within the West Sussex Wellbeing programme.
What is the WISE Weight Information and Sensible Eating course?
The WISE (Weight Information and Sensible Eating) course is one of the key programmes offered by Arun Wellbeing. It provides participants with practical information and guidance on healthy eating, portion control, and sustainable weight management strategies to help them achieve and maintain a healthier weight.
Can businesses or organisations utilise Arun Wellbeing services?
Yes, Arun Wellbeing offers Workplace Wellbeing services. Businesses and organisations in the Arun District can use a dedicated enquiry form to arrange a visit and discuss how the service can support the health and wellbeing of their employees.
Arun Wellbeing stands as a testament to the power of community-focused health initiatives. By offering accessible, free, and expert support, it continues to play a pivotal role in empowering residents to take control of their health, fostering a happier, healthier Arun District for everyone.
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