Leisure Program wins award at the ACT 2013 Health Promotion Awards
The Leisure Program at Capital Region Community Services was this year recognised in the ACT 2013 Health Promotion Awards by winning the “Outstanding Achievement to Promote Health and Wellbeing in the Community” award. These awards recognise a variety of innovative and best practice in projects that aim to improve the health of people in the ACT. They are an opportunity for the health promotion sector in the region to recognise and celebrate outstanding achievements in the field.
The Leisure Program is a recreational, activity and support program for people living with a mental illness or experiencing mental health issues. It is funded by ACT Health and located in the Belconnen Community Centre and also the Southern Cross Basketball stadium in Tuggeranong. Whilst there has always been social, educational and activity groups – the emphasis on health and wellbeing has increased steadily in recent years. The Leisure Program has facilitated workshops in smoking cessation, FoodCents (nutrition), and introduced a range of health focused excursions. In October 2013 a health screening project was undertaken with support from Mental Health Week funding.
Ultimately, regular consumer participation is one of the biggest performance indicators for mental health programs, providing evidence of inclusion and self-management. For some participants, getting out the door is a challenge that requires constant support and motivation to achieve small steps. Program numbers have continued to increase for the health and fitness activities of the Leisure Program and this has been celebrated by all.
For more information about this award winning program please call 6264 0200.