Making Every Contact Count: Awareness Training Sessions (Online)

See the below dates for the MECC Awareness online sessions for 2026.    

Watch this short videohighlighting the benefits of MECC to you and your services

To sign up, just click on the link for your chosen date and it will take you to the regional site to register.

• 23rd October 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413d3eea42b66fb067514d

• 25th November 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413e18ea42b66fb067521b

• 16th December 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413e97ea42b66fb06752b5

Making Every Contact Count: Awareness Training Sessions (Online)

See the below dates for the MECC Awareness online sessions for 2026.    

Watch this short videohighlighting the benefits of MECC to you and your services

To sign up, just click on the link for your chosen date and it will take you to the regional site to register.

• 14th September 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413c5cea42b66fb0674fb7

• 23rd October 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413d3eea42b66fb067514d

• 25th November 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413e18ea42b66fb067521b

• 16th December 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413e97ea42b66fb06752b5

Making Every Contact Count: Awareness Training Sessions (Online)

See the below dates for the MECC Awareness online sessions for 2026.    

Watch this short videohighlighting the benefits of MECC to you and your services

To sign up, just click on the link for your chosen date and it will take you to the regional site to register.

• 13th August 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413bc4ea42b66fb0674f4f

• 14th September 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413c5cea42b66fb0674fb7

• 23rd October 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413d3eea42b66fb067514d

• 25th November 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413e18ea42b66fb067521b

• 16th December 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413e97ea42b66fb06752b5

Making Every Contact Count: Awareness Training Sessions (Online)

See the below dates for the MECC Awareness online sessions for 2026.    

Watch this short videohighlighting the benefits of MECC to you and your services

To sign up, just click on the link for your chosen date and it will take you to the regional site to register.

• 10th July 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413b14ea42b66fb0674e57

• 13th August 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413bc4ea42b66fb0674f4f

• 14th September 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413c5cea42b66fb0674fb7

• 23rd October 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413d3eea42b66fb067514d

• 25th November 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413e18ea42b66fb067521b

• 16th December 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413e97ea42b66fb06752b5

Making Every Contact Count: Awareness Training Sessions (Online)

See the below dates for the MECC Awareness online sessions for 2026.    

Watch this short videohighlighting the benefits of MECC to you and your services

To sign up, just click on the link for your chosen date and it will take you to the regional site to register.

• 16th June 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413a67ea42b66fb0674d6f

• 10th July 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413b14ea42b66fb0674e57

• 13th August 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413bc4ea42b66fb0674f4f

• 14th September 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413c5cea42b66fb0674fb7

• 23rd October 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413d3eea42b66fb067514d

• 25th November 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413e18ea42b66fb067521b

• 16th December 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413e97ea42b66fb06752b5

Making Every Contact Count: Awareness Training Sessions (Online)

See the below dates for the MECC Awareness online sessions for 2026.    

Watch this short videohighlighting the benefits of MECC to you and your services

To sign up, just click on the link for your chosen date and it will take you to the regional site to register.

• 27th May 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/694139c9ea42b66fb0674d46

• 16th June 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413a67ea42b66fb0674d6f

• 10th July 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413b14ea42b66fb0674e57

• 13th August 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413bc4ea42b66fb0674f4f

• 14th September 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413c5cea42b66fb0674fb7

• 23rd October 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413d3eea42b66fb067514d

• 25th November 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413e18ea42b66fb067521b

• 16th December 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413e97ea42b66fb06752b5

From 11–17 May 2026, South Tees Wellbeing Network is inviting our partners, community groups, organisations and individuals to take action through our 'Just One Thing' Campaign to support wellbeing across our Network and South Tees communities.

With Action as this year’s theme, we’re calling for events, activities and personal pledges to be part of our Just One Thing campaign, delivered in partnership with Footprints in the Community, Teesside Mind, and community champions across our network and the Health Watch Together Connect Network.

To support you to get involved, we’re hosting an online network briefing on Wednesday 30 April, 12:15–1:00pm, sharing national campaign resources, more detail about our own ask and hearing from two providers on their plans and reflections on the theme of Action, with a workplace and community example. There will be plenty of time for questions, discussion and shared ideas. The session will outline the campaign, offer inspiration, and explain how your contribution can make a difference.

Register using the link on this page and you will be sent details in a confirmation email with the link to the Microsoft Teams based webinar.

With kindness

The South Tees Wellbeing Network Team/Footprints in the Community

Public Health South Tees

Making Every Contact Count: Awareness Training Sessions (Online)

See the below dates for the MECC Awareness online sessions for 2026.    

Watch this short video highlighting the benefits of MECC to you and your services

To sign up, just click on the link for your chosen date and it will take you to the regional site to register.

• 24th April 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413915ea42b66fb0674b8f

• 27th May 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/694139c9ea42b66fb0674d46

• 16th June 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413a67ea42b66fb0674d6f

• 10th July 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413b14ea42b66fb0674e57

• 13th August 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413bc4ea42b66fb0674f4f

• 14th September 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413c5cea42b66fb0674fb7

• 23rd October 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413d3eea42b66fb067514d

• 25th November 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413e18ea42b66fb067521b

• 16th December 2026 https://training.meccgateway.co.uk/events/69413e97ea42b66fb06752b5

Loneliness and social isolation are growing challenges in today’s increasingly digital world. But could technology, specifically artificial intelligence, be part of the solution?

The Rekindle Research Group has been exploring how AI can support people who feel lonely or isolated. From their research, the group reached a clear conclusion: yes, artificial intelligence can play a meaningful and positive role in supporting people who feel lonely or isolated.

On the 28th of January, Steve Thompson will explain the group's findings and show examples of how AI can be useful in this scenario.

This session is intended for all, especially for anyone with an interest in digital inclusion or community support.

The briefing will be hosted on Microsoft Teams at 12:15-1:15pm. 

Please note that this event will be recorded and made available for future access.

Forest-Side Contrast Therapy with Fire and Ice Community Sauna

Experience the revitalising effects of contrast therapy in a serene forest-side setting between Guisborough and Roseberry Topping at Pinchinthorpe Forest Walkway. Our pop-up wood-fired sauna tent and ice bath offer a unique 1-hour session designed to:

• Boost circulation and immunity

• Reduce inflammation and muscle soreness

• Improve mood and mental clarity

• Promote deep relaxation and stress relief

Free for South Tees Wellbeing Network members who haven’t yet attended a Fire and Ice session. Booking is essential—spaces fill quickly!

📅 Book your session today and reconnect with nature, your breath, and your wellbeing.

Creative Therapy Workshop - May Wellbeing Taster Session

Sat 17 May 2025 10:00 - 13:00

Saltburn Valley Woodland Centre, TS12 1GG

Join Annetta Wormald for a nourishing creative therapy workshop in the serene Saltburn Valley Woods, where art, movement, sound, and writing come together to support your wellbeing!

What You'll Discover

• Ways to express our own unique, inner landscapes using natural, found materials.

• Working with authentic movement, sound-making, and creative writing as tools for wellbeing

• The value of shared experiences in a safe, supportive environment

  This workshop offers a guided, expressvie art-making experience held in the tranquil, grounding setting of Saltburn Valley Woods. You will have time to reflect, connect and recharge in nature, and do not require artistic experience, just a willingness to be present and curious.
  

Who Should Attend

Anyone seeking a creative and therapeutic way to support their wellbeing

Individuals impacted by stress, trauma, or emotional overwhelm

People looking to reconnect with nature, themselves, and others

Those open to exploring healing through non-verbal and creative ways

Your Workshop Guide

Annetta is a Yorkshire-based psychotherapist with deep expertise in working with children and adults living with the impact of trauma. She draws from somatic trauma therapy, mindfulness, and the creative arts to support emotional healing and growth. With a warm and grounded approach, Annetta creates a safe space for participants to explore their stories through expressive art, movement, sound, and writing.

A Journey into Self Care - March Wellbeing Taster Session

Sat 22 Mar 2025 10:00 - 12:30

Women's Institue Hall, TS9 6DE

Join us for a deep dive into mindfulness and self-care. In this session, we’ll explore:

• What mindfulness really means and how it works

• Practical ways to incorporate mindfulness into daily life

• An immersive BeStill sound bath to leave you feeling restored, rejuvenated, and relaxed

Take this time for yourself—you deserve it.

BeStill CIC

BeStill CIC is a community interest company based in Redcar and working across Teesside, dedicated to helping people cultivate mindfulness in a way that is practical, accessible, and impactful.

They specialise in teaching what mindfulness is and how it can be applied to everyday life to promote positive behaviour change and support mental well-being.

Their sessions provide simple, effective mindfulness techniques that can be easily integrated into daily routines to help reduce stress, improve focus, and enhance overall well-being.

Meet Alex & Naz

With extensive experience in complementary therapies, Alex and Naz bring a wealth of
knowledge in:

• Yoga & Pilates – Movement practices to support mind-body connection

• Reiki & Aromatherapy – Energy healing and relaxation techniques

• EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) – A powerful tool for emotional well-being

• By combining these disciplines with mindfulness, we offer a holistic approach to well-being, helping individuals find calm, balance, and resilience in their everyday lives.

Introduction to Art Psychotherapy - A Wellbeing Taster Session

Sat 22 Feb 2025 10:30 - 13:00

Women’s Institue Hall, 137 Newton Rd, TS9 6DE

Join fellow Network members for our February Wellbeing Taster session, facilitated by Dr. Kelly Jayne and Terry Doyle!
This workshop will introduce Art Psychotherapy, and invite participants to experience how art can support healing. You will be given themes to explore and group work will be included.

Art making will play a significant part in the workshop and participants will be invited to share what they have made and expression of meaning will be warmly received. The workshop will be a safe space for exploration and expression.

Participants will be encouraged to engage at a pace and in a way that they feel most comfortable.

Please be mindful that you will be using art materials that may land  on your clothing, so dress appropriately and comfortably. Feel free to bring a cushion and blanket for comfort.

Wellbeing Walk in Nature - A Wellbeing Network Free Tasters Event

Saturday 28 December 2024 10:30 - 13:00

Earthbeat Centre, 1 Marske Mill Lane, Saltburn, TS12 1QA

With the year soon coming to a close, we would like to invite Network memebrs to our last Wellbeing taster session for 2024.

Under the guidance of Terry Doyle, our next Network Wellbeing Session will be to enjoy a mindful winter walk and burn off some of the excess Christmas Calories!

It will be a great opportunity to socialize with fellow Network companions and to enjoy the stunning scenery of this wonderful location.

We ask that you wear suitable footwear and warm clothing as it could be a chilly morning!

Psychological and Spiritual Approaches to Achieving Happiness

Saturday 23rd November 1pm-4pm

Earthbeat Centre, 1 Marske Mill Lane, Saltburn, TS12 1QA

South Tees Wellbeing Network brings you an opportunity to spend a Saturday afternoon with Keith Bayley who will introduce you to some approaches to achieving happiness and improving your wellbeing.

To all those booking:

• Please do not book as a maybe, booking your place is a commitment that may prevent others from attending. 

• So book it, then commit to it! If you need to cancel, please give us a minimum of 48 hours notice and use the link in your booking confirmation to do so.

• Thanks for your understanding. Enjoy this brilliant session.

The session:

This half day session will be an introduction to the psychological and spiritual approaches to achieving happiness and wellbeing. The session will help participants to explore what we can learn from the two approaches as well as identifying areas where life changes based on their insights can bring about personal benefits.

About Keith

Keith was previously the Manager of Hartlepool Voluntary Development Agency up until 2017, a voluntary sector support body, and was also the the Chair of Hartlepool and East Durham Mind up until 2020. He has taken a keen interest in mental wellbeing since he first became involved with Mind in 1997.
In 2015 he was awarded a MBE for my wide range of charitable work over his working life. I have previously delivered courses and workshops on various topics related to spirituality and personal development, including meditation and mindfulness. He’s been interested in spirituality and personal development since his 30s and has explored, and participated in various paths and traditions. He has undertaken a wide range of training as well as being widely read on the topics covered by this workshop.

BOOKING ESSENTIAL, SEE LINK ABOVE OR BELOW

Mind-set Matters - A Wellbeing Network Members Free Taster event

Sat 21 Sept 2024 10:00 - 13:00

St Francis Parish Hall , 5 Levick Crescent, Acklam, TS5 4RL 

South Tees Wellbeing Network brings you an opportunity to spend a Saturday morning with the Positivity Guru, Jo Taylor, who will coach you through creating a positive mindset

To all those booking:

• Please do not book as a maybe, booking your place is a commitment that may prevent others from attending. 

• So book it, then commit to it! If you need to cancel, please give us a minimum of 48 hours notice and use the link in your booking confirmation to do so.

• Thanks for your understanding. Enjoy this brilliant session.

The session:

Your mindset isn't coincidence, it's created! Join Joanna aka the Positivity Guru for an informative workshop learning how to create a bullet proof positive Mind-set. From nuero-science to psychology with a sprinkle of the law of attraction thrown in for good measure, Jo will give her top tips and mindful exercises that can help you to create a positive and healthy mindset that only you can change.

About Jo Taylor:

Jo Taylor is a Holistic Practitioner based in Acklam, Middlesbrough. She offers a wide range of energy healing and specialises in Mind-set coaching, helping people to overcome problems and teaching them how to create healthy and positive mindsets for all round happiness and well-being. Her motto is if you can think it, you can live it!

BOOKING ESSENTIAL, SEE LINK ABOVE OR BELOW

Join us for an essential event on Friday, September 13th, as "Tough Talk" delves into the pressing issue of the male suicide crisis. Delivered by Tough To Talk in partnership with North Riding FA and Public Health South Tees, this event aims to shed light on the factors contributing to male suicide and provide strategies for support within our communities.

*Please note - both sessions will provide the same content, so please only book onto one of the below sessions.

SESSION 1

Herlingshaw Centre, Normanby Road, South Bank, Middlesbrough, TS6 9AE
Friday 13th September, 1:00pm - 2:00pm

SESSION 2

Redcar Athletic Football Club, Green Lane, Redcar, TS10 3RW
Friday 13th September, 6:00pm - 7:00pm

 If you need to cancel please ensure you submit your cancellation within 48 hours of the seminar.

Our TOUGH TALKS are more than just speeches; they are a gateway to transforming how you view and deal with mental health. Each session is an opportunity to change lives through powerful storytelling and actionable insights. Book now to begin this vital conversation and join us on a journey towards personal growth and organizational resilience.

Motivational, interactive sessions right to your doorstep, designed to inspire men to harness the strength to open up and embrace vulnerability. If your goal is to gain insight and be inspired, you've found the right service.

Why Attend?

Our TOUGH TALKS series features engaging presentations from individuals who have faced unimaginable hardships and emerged stronger. These survivors share their incredible stories of resilience, bravery, and hope, providing not just inspiration but practical tools and strategies for personal and collective growth. Each talk is crafted to not only impact the lives of the attendees but also to equip them with the knowledge to effect change in others’ lives.

Privacy Policy — South Tees Wellbeing Network

Breathe, Move, Relax - A Wellbeing Network Members Free Taster event

Sat 13 Jul 2024 10:00 - 13:00

Charltons Community Centre, Charltons, Redcar and Cleveland, TS12 3DA

South Tees Wellbeing Network brings you an opportunity to spend a Saturday morning with a warm, local and inspiring trauma informed and creative psychotherapist with 30 years experience in her breathe, move, relax workshop.

To all those booking:

• Please do not book as a maybe, booking your place is a commitment that may prevent others from attending. 

• So book it, then commit to it! If you need to cancel, please give us a minimum of 48 hours notice and use the link in your booking confirmation to do so.

• Thanks for your understanding. Enjoy this brilliant session.

Breathe, Move, Relax... 

With Jo Drew

The session:

Jo Drew would like to invite you to a morning of relaxation and self-care. A breathing space from everyday pressures. Jo will lead you into a mindful meditation to allow you to fully arrive in the space. I offer a safe space for you to explore new ways of experiencing well-being and calm. I will gently lead you into an exploration of the felt sense as we move from our heads to our bodies in gentle movement exercises. Here is an opportunity to ease out bodily felt tension and begin to understand the wisdom held in our bodies. ….and we will dance, a gentle dance, a mediative dance, a movement meditation. I hope you will reap the benefits of the moving body- relaxation, the release of feel-good hormones, reduced anxiety, increased wellbeing. Lastly, the space will be open for conclusions in words, your thoughts and feelings, wonderings, and questions.

About Jo Drew:

I am Jo Drew, a trauma informed therapist; I work at Barnardo’s Tees Valley with children and young people who have sexual trauma. I am a creative therapist; I use movement, art, sand tray, drama, writing and music to enable expression of difficult feelings. My core training is as a movement Psychotherapist; working with the body to explore trauma and the difficulties that life can present us with. I have a background in Jungian psychology, and this informs my practice, the symbolic world, archetypes, dreams, fairy tales and myth. I have been a practicing therapist for nearly 30 years. I am a Reiki and mindfulness practitioner and have worked with adults with anxiety and depression using mindful practice over a number of years. I am a Astroshamanic practitioner using the seasons of earth and sky to facilitate workshops. My calling is to work with people to discover their authentic selves and in addition to my day job, I run community workshops and a small private practice. I look forward to meeting you!!

LOCATION

Charltons Community Centre, Charltons, Redcar and Cleveland, TS12 3DA

BOOKING ESSENTIAL, SEE LINK ABOVE OR BELOW

Learning at Lunch

The Tees Mental Health Training Hub Invites you to the Wellbeing Movement Webinar

The Wellbeing Movement continues to grow and develop. Join us to learn about Wellbeing Pathway updates, showcasing new initiatives (sign up in the session) and the latest effective approaches to improving wellbeing.

You will be joined by our Guest Speakers:

1. Host and Guest Speaker - Gareth Hammond - Social Media Blogger of Sport and Sporting Impact

2. Guest Speaker - Joe Linton - Wellbeing Coach

3. Guest Speaker - Terry Doyle - Mindfulness & Tai Chi Coach

4. Guest Speaker - Richie Andrew - Health Improvement Specialist at Public Health South Tees

5. Guest Speaker - Lorna Routledge - Active Forests Coordinator at Guisborough Forest

If you have any enquiries regarding the Webinar, please contact below:

• claireyeoman@letsconnect-eng.co.uk

• TWTH@letsconnect-eng.co.uk

To all those booking:

• Please do not book as a maybe, booking your place is a commitment that may prevent others from attending. 

• So book it, then commit to it! If you need to cancel, please give us a minimum of 48 hours notice and use the link in your booking confirmation to do so.

• Thanks for your understanding. Enjoy this brilliant session.

• Helen asks that every person attending bring a cushion with them too.

Don't Worry, Be Happy! 

With Helen Bartram

Ever found yourself thinking 'I just want to feel happier ... is that too much to ask?'

Perhaps you've always admired those people who take a positive optimistic approach to life?

It could be that for you, you find yourself stuck in stressful / worrisome situations and you don't know how to handle everything.

If any of those statements resonate with you or you are simply looking for ways to create more happiness and live life fully then 'Don't worry, be happy' workshop is for you!

Using science backed methods and research the workshop will explore the following areas:

1. Positivity

2. Emotions

3. Acceptance

4. Meaning and purpose

5. Habits for happiness

The workshop will be a mix of thought provoking exploration and activities.

About Helen Bartram: 

Helen is a positive psychology enthusiast and uses the science backed methods to inform her own wellbeing practices and with her clients. She works with both adults and children in the mental health and wellbeing industry. Her passion lies in helping others navigate life's challenges and supporting them in creating and living a meaningful and purposeful life. Helen is qualified in many holistic practices ranging from meditation to reiki to EFT. She has delivered wellbeing training to hundreds of people in the last 5 years and loves to continue learning.

As well as working on a self employed basis, Helen also has a part time role at The Link Charitable Trust based in Redcar. She works with 14-25 year olds visiting schools and colleges offering wellbeing sessions and outreach work.

When Helen is not at work you will no doubt find her on the beach admiring a sunrise or sunset, listening to music, laughing at her own jokes or trying to beat her children on Mario Kart Racing.

Book your place soon before spaces run out!

Follow/Discover Lauras work:

Helen Bartram on Linked In

Helen on Instagram

Helen at Ted X event

LOCATION

Earthbeat, 1 Marske Mill Lane, Saltburn, TS12 1QA

Wellbeing Alternatives to the Medicalisation of human Distress

South Tees Wellbeing Network Connect-Explore-Act Event

The Curve Building, Teesside University, Middlesbrough, TS1 3BX

Thursday 11 April 2024, 08:30 - 15:45

South Tees Wellbeing Network brings you an event to challenge your thinking, connect to others leading vital changes, explore the wellbeing alternatives and give you confidence to act collaboratively and rebalance the way we think and support people experiencing distress. 

Book your place soon before spaces run out! We anticipate a lot of interest in this event. We may be offering virtual attendance, so if you can't make it all day, or the event was full before you got a chance, don't fret just yet! Book on the waiting list and we'll keep you in the loop.

MOVEMENT, MASSAGE & MEDITATION with Liz Collier and Terry Doyle

(2 sessions AM/PM)

Sat 23 Mar 10:30 - 15:30 at Senses Wellbeing Centre Unit 2, Birdswell Court, Watness Avenue, Skelton Ind' Estate

As a special treat to mark the end of the South Tees Wellbeing Network's Wellbeing in Practice Series, we are delighted to be able to offer the opportunity to present a whole day retreat to ease our way into Springtime.

People can either book on for the whole day to fully pamper yourself or for those who may not have the time then you can book on either the morning or the afternoon's session. For those staying for the whole day please bring a packed lunch.

The venue is the wonderful Senses Well Being Centre #FitnessForAll which is an absolute gem of a centre bringing a varied range of sessions to the people of East Cleveland.

Living Well with Mindfulness and Mindfulness Meditation with Laura Ashurst

South Tees Wellbeing Network brings you a seriously international standard speaker for this workshop, as inspiring as she is knowledgeable. Do not miss out.

Saturday, February 10th 2024, 10.30am - 12.30pm

Women's Institute Hall, 137 Newton Rd, Great Ayton TS9 6DQ (Free parking on site)

South Tees Wellbeing Network brings you an international standard speaker for this workshop, as inspiring as she is knowledgeable. Do not miss out.

To all those booking:

• Please do not book as a maybe, booking your place is a commitment that may prevent others from attending. We have had some sessions where more than 50% who have booked have not turned up or let us know! I know, how rude! 

• So book it, then commit to it! If you need to cancel, please give us a minimum of 48 hours notice and use the link in your booking confirmation to do so.

• Thanks for your understanding. Enjoy this brilliant session.

Living Well with Mindfulness and Mindfulness Meditation with Laura Ashurst

This two-hour workshop is an opportunity for Laura to share some of the underlying principles of mindfulness and mindfulness meditation, providing tips and strategies that will help to weave mindfulness and breathing practices into your day. Based on the ethos that we are all more alike than we are unalike in the way that we function as human beings, Laura's workshop has a strong emphasis on self-kindness and self-compassion - skills that help us to live well in a hectic world.

The meditation aspect of the workshop will be chair-based so perhaps bring along a blanket for your comfort and wellbeing to wrap around your shoulders during the seated practice. Comfort is key!

Laura Ashurst has lived with secondary breast, the incurable form of the disease for 16 years. She was first diagnosed with primary breast cancer in 2001 when her son Jack was 6 months old and her daughter Megan was three. She underwent a lumpectomy and 25 sessions of radiotherapy. Three years later another separate tumour grew in the same breast and Laura then had a mastectomy and a breast reconstruction. She received the devastating news that her cancer had spread to her lungs in December 2007 and has been receiving cancer treatment since then. Despite the odds, Laura is currently stable and doing well.

Her experiences as a cancer patient led her to cancer campaigning. She is an ambassador for Richmond (Yorks) for Cancer Research UK in the Cancer Campaigns team, the political lobbying wing of CRUK. She is an active metastatic breast cancer campaigner for several charities and is the Patron of the Trinity Holistic Centre at The James Cook University Hospital. Laura was awarded a Prime Minister's Points of Light Award in November 2022 for her services to campaigning for secondary breast cancer.

Laura is hugely passionate about promoting mental health awareness. She experienced a severe mental health decline when she was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer and this led to her introduction to mindfulness meditation. She now teaches meditation and mindfulness as part of her Living With Hope business.

Her workshop will address the essential need for mental health support for all and how mindfulness and meditation can play an integral role in supporting our wellbeing.

Laura is thrilled to have been invited to be our speaker.

Book your place soon before spaces run out!

Follow Laura:

Laura Ashurst on Instagram

Laura on X

Laura's Website

LOCATION

Women's Institute Hall, 137 Newton Rd, Great Ayton (Free parking on site), TS9 6DQ

Stage your own family puppet show using mini puppet theatres created at Whippet Up creative health sessions!

CANCELLED EVENT, MAY BE RESCHEDULED, WATCH THIS SPACE

Saturday, January 6th 2024, 10.30am - 12.30pm

Women's Institute Hall, 137 Newton Rd, Great Ayton TS9 6DQ (Free parking on site)

This workshop is open to any adults, who may be accompanied by their children, grandchildren, friends’ children, or any youngsters they can bring along. It’s a workshop for anyone from 1 to 100.

Whippet up group members have made puppets you can use, or you can even make your own puppets on the day.

The group members of Whippet Up have created themed puppet theatres that you can use to create your own family puppet show. There is a range of theatres you may use as listed below:

· A classic theatre

· An underwater theatre

· A nature theatre

· An outer space theatre

· A gothic horror theatre