Public health news: a better u Community Champion

Public health news: June 2024

My name is Elaine and I am a better u Champion.

After 44 years of working full-time I decided I wanted more freedom and time to myself.

The first few months were great but then I realised I was finding it difficult to adjust. I needed a new focus and a new sense of purpose.

One day I was at Cleadon Park library when one of the a better u drop in mornings was happening. There was lots going on and everyone was very friendly. I picked up some leaflets as I wandered around. One of them was about the a better u Champions network.

It had information about how to become a Community Champion. It looked interesting, but I wasn't sure. I didn't want to do something I might not enjoy or would take up too much time. I decided to leave it for now but come to other drop-ins when I could.

After speaking to other people at the drop ins, being a champion started to sound more and more like what I had been looking for, so I signed up. It was one of the best decisions I have ever made!

a better u Champions choose what they want to do, how much time they give and how often.

Some of us share health information with friends and family, others share flyers with supermarkets, pharmacies etc. Some champions help out at different health and wellbeing events, signposting to services and chatting to people.

Support is always on-hand and no one is left to feel out of their comfort zone. Champions can sign up to free training sessions on lots of health topics. You can decide if you want to attend none, some, or all of the sessions which are available.

Since becoming a better u Champion I have met lots of people, made new friends and learned a great deal about the health and wellbeing services in South Tyneside. I have a new-found sense of purpose and knowing I have made a difference for others, no matter how small, gives me a sense of achievement.

Why not become abetteru Health Champion volunteer yourself?

I can't think of any other volunteer opportunity that gives as much flexibility, support, training and friendship. You can start small and become more involved if and when you want to.

Would you like to join Elaine and our team of community champions and help your friends, family, colleagues and local community to become a better u?

Sign up now at a better u.