A report by Envoy Partnership has confirmed the positive impact Torus Foundation-led Healthy Neighbours Project has had on people, their communities and local services.

The Healthy Neighbours Project works to improve health and wellbeing in communities by connecting residents to current services. Where there are gaps in provision, volunteer champions work with local charities and organisations, known as delivery partners, to provide services to meet local needs and priorities.

It was launched by Torus Foundation – the charitable arm of Torus Group - in 2022 as part of its commitment to improving lives and growing stronger communities. In 2023, the project received £494k funding from the National Lottery Community Fund.

The report found the project’s success was rooted in its “community-led model that prioritises local engagement and empowerment”. Since its launch, it has engaged 5,191 people across 2,889 events and activities. The project engaged 197 volunteers who contributed 12,603 hours and facilitated 1,027 referrals addressing various health and societal issues. Funding from The National Lottery Community Fund is set to end in April 2025 however, due to its success, Torus Foundation has committed to continuing the project.

Helen Cibinda Ntale, Head of Health and Wellbeing, Torus Foundation, said:

“The impact of the Healthy Neighbours Project has been phenomenal, and its achievements have exceeded what we thought possible. Through empowering the people at the heart of our communities, we have been able to improve health and wellbeing, reduce dependency on GP surgeries and make a real difference to people financially.

“Torus Foundation is delighted to be able to continue to fund the Healthy Neighbours Project for the foreseeable future.”

Commissioned by Torus Foundation following a successful pilot, Healthy Neighbours Project is delivered across four Torus communities by local organisations: First Person Project (FPP), City Healthcare Partnerships (St Helens Wellbeing), Friends of St Elphin’s Park and Longford Neighbourhood Service Centre.

Key findings from Envoy Partnership’s Healthy Neighbours Project Social impact evaluation (2022-24)

Stronger communities

Over the two-year delivery period, participants have been involved in activities that improve the local area – like gardening and litter picking – and help foster a sense of community, including coffee mornings and craft groups.

• 82% felt a stronger sense of belonging to their community
• 197 volunteers contributed 12,603 hours
• 69% felt a stronger sense of pride in their neighbourhood

In addition to the benefits felt by individuals, the Healthy Neighbours Project helped delivery partners improve their community impact through expanded reach, enhanced recognition, including award wins, strengthened connections to organisations in the local area, and improved collaboration and project evaluation.

Healthier individuals

Walking groups, exercise classes, and cooking classes encouraged healthy living, and Healthy Neighbour Project initiatives, like the Healthy Lungs Project, have enhanced wellbeing.

• 82% felt happier about overall health and wellbeing
• 83% have better knowledge of where to seek health and wellbeing support
• 61% felt more calm and less anxious

Early detection activities for diabetes and high blood pressure reduced GP visits for participants through signposting to alternatives, and decreasing severe mental health impacts have resulted in resource saving to the NHS of approximately £344,257.

Improved finances

Healthy Neighbour Project participants saw improved financial wellbeing thanks to various cost-of-living support initiatives. Through food pantries, school uniform recycling schemes, and energy advice services, residents reported average annual savings of:

• £545 on food costs
• £1,170 in avoided debt costs
• £1,023 in general savings

Click here to read Envoy Partnership’s full report.

To learn more, visit torusfoundation.org.uk/healthyneighbours