SHIP
Sandwell Health Inequalities Programme
The YCA in Sandwell is proud to be part of the Sandwell Health Inequalities Programme (SHIP), a vital initiative focused on improving the health and wellbeing of ethnic minority communities in Sandwell. Funded by Sandwell Council Public Health, SHIP brings together 11 delivery partners to offer tailored activities and interventions designed to address health inequalities across the borough.
Key Focus Areas:
Our approach is holistic, supporting residents in a variety of ways to improve their overall health. The YCA’s key focus areas include:
- Physical Activity: Encouraging exercise and movement to improve both physical and mental health.
- Health Awareness Sessions: Offering knowledge about common health conditions and prevention strategies.
- Managing Mental Health: Providing resources and support for managing stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges.
- Healthy Eating & Cooking: Promoting healthy eating habits and practical cooking skills to support long-term health.
A Variety of Activities:
To support these key areas, the YCA offers a wide range of activities designed to meet the diverse needs of Sandwell residents. These include:
- Yoga
- Muay Thai
- Football
- Swimming
- Social Clubs
- Health & Awareness Workshops
- Counselling Services
We also offer some gender-specific sessions (e.g. males-only or females-only) to accommodate cultural and faith preferences within the community.
Achievements & Impact:
Year 1 (2022-23),
The YCA made a significant impact by reaching 100 residents, supporting them to adopt healthier lifestyles and engage with their local communities. Participants gained valuable insights into managing long-term health conditions like diabetes, cancer and dementia, and were introduced to services and resources they hadn’t accessed before. These efforts reduced isolation and created a sense of empowerment within the community.
Year 2 (2023-24)
Building on the success of Year 1, the second year has been another year of growth. The YCA has already reached an additional 50 residents, expanding its reach with even more diverse activities and services. We’re seeing residents take greater control of their health and wellbeing, with increasing participation in physical activities and mental health support.
How to Get Involved:
There’s something for everyone – Whether you’re looking to improve your fitness, gain more understanding of health conditions or connect with others in your community. We welcome residents from all backgrounds and encourage everyone to get involved. If you’d like to know more about upcoming activities or how to get involved, please don’t hesitate to contact us on 0121-525-3909 or email info@yca-sandwell.org.uk for more information.
Join us in taking the next step towards better health and wellbeing in Sandwell!
