Hull housing and support specialist, Riverside Care and Support, hosted an event Five Ways to Wellbeing Day, in central Hull, alongside its partner wellbeing agencies at The Octagon in Hull this week (23 March).

There is strong evidence that suggests that feeling close to, and valued by other people is a fundamental human need and one that contributes to functioning well in the world.

Riverside promotes equality and inclusion for its former homeless customers at housing schemes throughout the city. Formerly homeless people living at Riverside’s schemes across North Yorkshire and the Humber, many of whom have spent time sleeping rough, or experience complex mental health difficulties, were invited to the wellbeing event.

The event was hosted in collaboration with local agencies including ABL Health, and drug and alcohol agency, Renew. People received advice including around weight management, breast and bowel screening, and dental hygiene. Attendees could also gain advice around stopping smoking and healthy eating.

Mark Cook, Area Manager at Riverside, said:

“Our support teams work with our customers to make community health services more accessible to them.

“A Department of Health report from 2010 suggested that the cost of homelessness to the NHS is £64 million a year, with homeless people 3.2 times more likely than the general population to be an inpatient admission. Our wellbeing services help customers manage their health in better ways, working to reduce hospital admissions and saving the NHS vital funds.”

The themes around the wellbeing event were:

‘Connect’ – promoting social relationships and positive mental health.

‘Be active’ – essentials around exercise positive wellbeing.

‘Take notice’ – practicing mindfulness and reflection.

‘Learn’ – music therapy and working towards goals.

‘Give’ – volunteering opportunities in Hull.

Steven spent most of his working life employed as a theatre technician for the NHS. He felt like he needed a new challenge and trained as a chef. On moving to Hull, Steven was initially staying with friends but struggled to find employment and found himself homeless.

Steven was initially allocated accommodation at The Crossings, run by Riverside, where he stayed for nine weeks. He then moved onto Riverside’s accommodation at Terry Street.  

He said: “Having a flat of my own has really helped me get back on my feet. I was made Customer Representative at The Crossings, which has boosted my confidence.

“The support team has helped me access services in Hull I didn’t know were out there. Now I’m looking forward to reconnecting with my family and friends.”