Wellbeing Exeter began as a pilot in 2016, developed to respond to the large proportion of people engaging with primary care (especially GPs) for social rather than medical reasons. It was felt that bringing together the knowledge and expertise of voluntary sector organisations with public sector agencies would provide a mechanism for supporting people to build links with their community.
Wellbeing Exeter takes a twin-strand approach. Community connectors work one-to-one with individuals, linking them with a wide range of community-based opportunities to engage positively with their neighbourhood. Alongside this, a team of community builders, based in every ward in the city, helps unlock community assets and build capacity, enabling active, inclusive communities to develop and thrive.
Since those early days, the partnership has evolved and expanded to respond to changing needs. The team played an important role in Exeter’s response to the Covid pandemic, and has also worked with council colleagues to support Ukrainian refugees settle in the city. Community-based physical activity roles have been added, and there is now specialist support for young people and families, and culturally diverse communities.
In addition, Wellbeing Exeter has broadened referral routes beyond GPs to include schools, family support agencies, and other social and primary care routes.
Wellbeing Exeter is currently funded through a range of sources, including Exeter City Council, Sport England’s Live and Move pilot, and Devon County Council. Unfortunately, DCC’s contribution (around £270,000) for this financial year is under threat owing to budget cuts. A consultation on this decision closed on 22 April, and a final decision will be made in July.
Wellbeing Exeter has just launched a pilot Self-Referral route to access its services open for Exeter Residents.
If you are a resident in Exeter needing assistance with anything such as combating loneliness, learning new skills, or getting involved with your community then why not give them a try?
You can find their referral form here or scan the QR code on the poster below.
