Unity and Wellbeing CIC is a community-focused organisation established to improve mental health, physical wellbeing and social connection within the community. The organisation aims to provide a safe, inclusive and non-judgemental environment where people can come together, become more physically active, develop meaningful relationships and support one another. During the financial year, Unity and Wellbeing developed and delivered a range of community activities focused on improving both physical and mental wellbeing. These included wellbeing sessions, gym and social activities, community walks and hikes, running activities, and MMA and self-defence sessions. The organisation has placed particular emphasis on addressing mental health stigma and encouraging greater openness around wellbeing, particularly within the South Asian community, while ensuring that activities remain inclusive and accessible to the wider community. The organisation's activities have benefited the community in the following ways: -provided opportunities for people to improve their physical health through accessible activities includ-ing running, walking, hiking, gym-based activities and MMA -provided opportunities for people to improve confidence, discipline, resilience and self-esteem through physical activity and group participation -created opportunities for people to meet others, develop friendships and reduce social isolation through regular community activities -provided wellbeing and peer-support opportunities in an informal and supportive environment where people can discuss mental health and wellbeing without judgement -helped challenge negative perceptions and stigma surrounding mental health by encouraging open conversations and community support -provided outdoor activities such as community hikes and walks which encourage physical activity, connection with nature and social interaction -established a community running club which encourages participation in physical activity without pressure, with an emphasis on gradual progress, healthier habits and social connection -provided MMA and self-defence sessions which combine physical fitness with confidence, discipline, resilience and practical skills -developed an active community network through regular communication and a WhatsApp group, al-lowing participants to remain connected outside organised activities -encouraged community participation through fundraising and shared activities, including a community fundraising hike which raised approximately £600 to support the project's wider aims; and -developed the foundations for a longer-term community wellbeing facility which will bring together physical activity, mental wellbeing, social connection and community support. The organisation's approach recognises that physical health, mental wellbeing and social connection are closely linked. Rather than relying solely on formal support services, Unity and Wellbeing uses community activities, physical exercise, peer support and human connection to create positive oppor-tunities for people to improve their overall wellbeing. The project has received positive engagement from the community, with early workshops and activities attracting groups of approximately 25–46 participants. The organisation has used this engagement to develop its programme and identify activities that are most relevant to the community. The longer-term aim of Unity and Wellbeing CIC is to establish a sustainable and accessible communi-ty facility where people can participate in physical activity, wellbeing workshops, social activities and other initiatives designed to improve mental and physical wellbeing. Through these activities, Unity and Wellbeing CIC has continued to build a supportive community where people can train together, learn from one another, develop meaningful relationships and support each other's wellbeing.

The stakeholders of Unity and Wellbeing CIC include people who participate in or benefit from the or-ganisation's activities, members of the local community, volunteers, workshop facilitators, activity pro-viders, community partners and organisations supporting the project's development. The organisation has also engaged particularly with members of the South Asian community to better understand the barriers that can prevent people from discussing mental health, accessing support and participating in activities that promote wellbeing. Stakeholder consultation has taken place through conversations with community members, feedback from participants attending activities and workshops, informal discussions following sessions, social media engagement and communication through the organisation's WhatsApp community. The directors have also used their ongoing contact with participants and members of the community to understand what activities people would like to see developed and what barriers may prevent them from taking part. Feedback received has identified a demand for accessible opportunities to: -become more physically active; -meet and socialise with other people; -improve mental wellbeing in a supportive environment; -participate in activities without feeling judged or pressured; -build confidence, discipline and resilience; -spend more time outdoors and participate in walking and hiking activities; and -have more open conversations about mental health and wellbeing, particularly within communities where stigma can sometimes act as a barrier. The feedback received has directly influenced the development of Unity and Wellbeing's activities. In response to community interest in physical activity and social connection, the organisation developed the Unity Running Club, community hiking and walking activities, gym and social activities, and MMA and self-defence sessions. The organisation has also continued to develop wellbeing-focused activities, including peer-support and wellness sessions, mindfulness and nature-based activities, providing different ways for people to engage according to their interests and comfort levels. The development of the MMA and self-defence sessions was influenced by interest in activities that could improve physical fitness while also developing confidence, discipline and resilience. Similarly, the running and hiking activities provide opportunities for people to exercise socially without the pressure of competitive sport. The organisation's WhatsApp community provides an ongoing communication channel through which participants can receive information, remain connected and share suggestions regarding future activi-ties. Feedback from participants has therefore been used as part of the ongoing development of the project rather than being limited to a single formal consultation exercise. The organisation will continue to consult its stakeholders as Unity and Wellbeing develops. Feedback from participants, community discussions, workshops and activities will be used to ensure that future programmes continue to reflect the needs and priorities of the community. Overall, the organisation has adopted a community-led approach: listening to stakeholders, delivering activities in response to identified needs, gathering feedback and adapting the project accordingly. This ensures that Unity and Wellbeing CIC remains focused on delivering genuine community benefit.

No remuneration was received

No transfer of assets other than for full consideration