Talk Community Newsletter 8.5.25
The WOW Grant is back!
As part of the Household Support Fund, applications are now open for the WOW grant. The WOW grant is open to organisations in Herefordshire that can identify a particular community need and provide support to those who are most financially vulnerable.
The grant should enable organisations to provide a fun, friendly space and accessible activities alongside food and drink. Importantly all sessions should be open to everyone and completely free of charge. Organisers should be pro-active in delivering information and signposting to support with the cost of living (we’ve got plenty of information to help with this!).
If your organisation runs community activities, we are inviting you to extend your current offer, to support wellbeing in your community. Visit the Talk Community Directory for more information and details of how to apply.
Here For Herefordshire Holidays – Thank you!
We wanted to say a big thank you to all the activity providers who made this Easter’s Here for Herefordshire Holidays such a success! Thanks to your hard work and dedication, the children were able to make happy memories, go home with smiles on their faces, and food in their bellies. We’ll see you again for the next one this summer!
Inspiration for a fun half term
If you’re looking for ideas to help you and your family stay active and entertained during the May half term, there are lots of different activities and events taking place across Herefordshire.
We’ve compiled a handy list of activities that are taking place throughout the week. From an orchard odyssey, to an inclusive rave, lego club and more, there should be something for everyone!
Find activities for you and your family on the Talk Community Directory, and don’t forget to check out our what’s on calendar for even more inspiration! Remember to keep checking the page, as we will continue to add events in the lead up to the half term break.
If you’re running half term activities or events that you would like to promote, please do get in touch by emailing us: talkcommunityengagement@herefordshire.gov.uk
Mental Health Awareness Week 12 – 18 May 2025: The Power of Community
Next week is Mental Health Awareness Week, an annual campaign to raise awareness of mental health across the UK. It’s a time to encourage open conversations, challenge stigma, and remind us to look after our mental health, just as we do our physical health.
This year’s theme is “Community,” highlighting how the people around us – family, friends, neighbours, and local groups – play a vital role in our mental wellbeing. Strong communities create strong mental health, helping us feel connected, valued, and supported.
How You Can Make a Difference in Your Community:
- Reach out to someone you haven’t spoken to in a while.
- Join or support a local wellbeing group, like a walking group or volunteer initiative.
- Share your story or listen to someone else’s to reduce stigma and build resilience.
- Celebrate diversity and inclusion by supporting people from all walks of life.
And on Thursday, 15th May, why not join Wear it Green Day by wearing something green to show your support for mental health awareness. It’s a simple, powerful way to raise awareness and spark conversations about mental wellbeing.
If you’re looking for ways to connect in your local community, the Talk Community Directory is a great place to discover wellbeing activities, support groups, community initiatives, and so much more!
Here for Herefordshire Holidays are on the lookout for activity providers
Our Here for Herefordshire Holidays programme will be back for summer 2025 and we are aiming to make it the best yet! To help achieve this, we are on the lookout for new activity providers across the county.
This government funded initiative provides fully funded holiday fun for children on benefits-related free school meals. Children and young people attending can enjoy enriching activities, new experiences plus a tasty meal and snacks.
Do you know of a fantastic organisation, holiday club, or community group that could deliver exciting activities for children this summer? Or maybe you are part of one yourself and want to make a difference to children and young people in Herefordshire? If so, we would love to hear from you.
For more information please read the HAF information pack and the quick guide on the Herefordshire Council website, and if you have any questions please contact the HAF team HAFproviders@herefordshire.gov.uk
Applications open on May 12th.
Herefordshire Families First Partnership Programme Online Launch
Herefordshire Council invites you join the online launch of the Herefordshire Families First Partnership Programme, which will be delivered in collaboration with the Department for Education and their delivery partners Mutual Ventures.
This free webinar will take place on Wednesday 21st May, and is open to our Children and Young People colleagues and all partner agencies working with and supporting families.
The webinar will provide:
- A national overview of the Families First Partnership Programme
- Some key learning from Pathfinder Local Authorities
- Our overall aim for families in Herefordshire
- Opportunities to consider how we can work together and co-produce a high quality, responsive Families First Partnership offer in Herefordshire
- An opportunity to ask questions about the programme
- Details of future events and workshops in our locality areas
There are two time-slots as follows (please only book one slot): 9.30am – 10.30am 3.00pm – 4.00pm. To sign up for the webinar, please visit Eventbrite.
What’s new on the directory?
As we mark VE Day and take a moment to reflect on the strength and spirit of our communities, it’s the perfect time to celebrate the local support and activities available right here in Herefordshire. From new groups and events to helpful resources, the Talk Community Directory continues to grow. Here’s what’s new:
St Weonards VE Day Celebrations
Pure Vintage @ Holme Lacy Village Hall
Free Community Health Checks at Holme Lacy Village Hall
Our socials are a great way to keep in touch with what’s on too, whether you’re
Have you heard of Shared Lives?
Our Lives get better when they’re shared
Herefordshire Shared Lives is a Care Quality Commission (CQC) registered service provided by Herefordshire Council. Shared Lives is a highly personalised form of care that supports people
