There are record numbers of women diagnosed with diseases relating to the reproductive or endocrine systems, however, the NHS has limited services for these issues. The government surveyed 100,000 people for the Women’s Health Strategy consultation, and the results indicate that women feel they do not have sufficient knowledge on women's health, eg only 4% of 18-59 year olds for gynaecological issues, 9% for menopause, and 17% for menstrual wellbeing. When asked how they find information, 74% would turn to family and friends for advice. However, when speaking to women in a Central London estate, they report feeling isolated and lacking a support network due to the location of their home.
This project bridges the gap for women to not only provide them with the much-needed knowledge surrounding their health but also to relieve their isolation by building a strong female community that can share wisdom and support each other to improve well-being and happiness. The funding will be used to provide 3-hour workshops run by a qualified Health Coach who will spend the first-hour educating participants on topics such as hormonal health, menstrual wellbeing, gynaecological issues or menopause. The participants can then practice cooking a recipe that is nutritionally beneficial to the topic discussed, and the final hour will be spent eating together to solidify the communal bond.
With the support of Camden Council, HCK has delivered 10 successful workshops in a highly income-deprived central London estate. The success of the project has exceeded all expectations. Attendees left feeling empowered with relatable knowledge, and the hands-on practice removed the overwhelm of implementing necessary lifestyle changes. Participants also appreciated the community that the workshops built, as many lived in the estate for decades without knowing any of their neighbours. The close relationship with the residents association and Camden Council, as well as the location of the hall place HCK in the perfect position to reach women that need us the most.
Qualified Health Coach Wage - £200 x 6 sessions | £1,200 |
Produce - for 16 people to cook and eat an organic meal - £150/session | £900 |
Printing costs: Marketing and handouts | £100 |
Program development with experts and a specialist nutritionist | £800 |
96 people
The workshops have a capacity of 16, therefore there is a potential to host 96 participants. However, as with previous workshops, the impact is far greater than those that attend due to the positive ripple effect that is felt within the families, friendship groups and work places of the participants whom report better energy levels, lifted moods and calmer state of mind. Participants also share knowledge with their loved ones and encourage them to also make lifestyle changes. Improved health leads to better communication skills, which results in healthier relationships. It is difficult to measure such impact, however, the testimonies from multiple participants confirm that the benefits are not limited to those that attend.
"I can't thank Health Coach Kitchen enough for the positive changes that have happened in my life. Thanks to their educational, practical and fun approach to wellness, I have transformed my lifestyle for the better. The community that Health Coach Kitchen has created provided me with a supportive and safe environment to practice cooking, seek wellness advice, and connect with like-minded individuals. The workshops have been a game-changer for me, as they have allowed me to consistently make and maintain long-term holistic lifestyle changes. Charise Garcia is an incredible health coach, with boundless energy and knowledge, and her passion to help others is truly inspiring. Thanks to Charise and Health Coach Kitchen, I feel happier and healthier every day, which has had a positive impact on every aspect of my life - from work to family and friends." - Anbu A, Bourne Estate Resident