World Homeless Day 2024
World Homeless Day is observed internationally on October 10th. It provides a platform to raise awareness about the experiences of people facing homelessness, as well as highlighting what we can do recognise homelessness in our communities and an opportunity to showcase work that is being done to tackle issues surrounding homelessness.
With just one week to go until World Homeless Day, find out about the fundraising events taking place around the county on the Talk Community Directory.
World Mental Health Day 2024
World Mental Health Day takes place each year on 10th October; it is an opportunity to come together to talk about mental health and show everyone that mental health matters.
This year the theme for World Mental Health Day is workplace mental health. Many of us spend large parts of our day at work, and it can have a huge impact on our emotional wellbeing (both positive and negative). Therefore, it's important that organisations are equipped to support employees and volunteers mental health, and as individuals, to know that support is available.
If you’re wondering how you can support this campaign visit The World Federation of Mental Health website. You’ll find posters and social media graphics available to download and promote the campaign as well as a guide to support mental health at work, or find out more about hosting a Tea & Talk event for World Mental Health Day.
Visit the Mental health and emotional wellbeing pages on the Talk Community Directory.
Support Herefordshire residents to check their benefit entitlement this autumn
Autumn is now officially here and this week the energy price cap has risen. Many people may be worrying about rising costs and covering their household bills. However research has shown that millions of benefits go unclaimed each year, meaning Herefordshire residents could be worse off than they should be.
The good news is that Herefordshire residents can use the Better off service to check their entitlement to any benefits. If you are a pensioner, or know a pensioner concerned about losing winter fuel payments, you can find out about applying for Pension Credit on the Talk Community Directory.
It’s important to be aware that even if you have been unsuccessful applying for Pension Credit in the past, a change of circumstances may make someone newly eligible.
If you are worrying about money, there’s information and advice on the Money on Your Mind section of the Talk Community Directory.
Tree Council Grant
The Tree Council's Branching Out Fund is now open for applications, offering grants from £250 to £2,500 for tree, hedgerow, and orchard planting. Eligible groups include schools, charities, and community organisations.
Applications are due by Sunday 1st December 2024, and successful applicants will be notified within 5-6 weeks. Grants are paid after planting, and all projects must have planted and submitted a claim form before midnight on Sunday 16th March 2025.
For more details, including how to apply and access budget templates, visit The Tree Council's website.
Positive Ageing Week
Positive Ageing Week (30th September – 6th October), is a global initiative which aims to celebrate the contributions of older people and promote a more inclusive society.
This year Herefordshire Council are taking part in a collaborative campaign with Active Herefordshire and Worcestershire, and Worcestershire County Council, with the aim of raising awareness about the benefits of staying active later in life.
Our muscles naturally get weaker as we age. This means that muscle strengthening activity is the most important type of exercise to do as we get older in order to keep our muscles strong and healthy.
To discover more about Positive Ageing Week, learn about exercises, and for more information on other clubs and physical activity opportunities in Herefordshire, please visit the Talk Community website.
Don’t miss the free, family WOW activities this autumn
From racket sports, to yoga, cooking and crafts, there’s plenty of free family activities taking place across Herefordshire, thanks to the wonderful WOW providers. All events include free hot food and drinks and are designed to boost wellbeing. Families can also access information and advice to support them around the cost of living.
Find out what’s on when, on the Talk Community Directory.
Hate Crime Awareness Week 14th – 21st October
Victim Support are hosting an event for Hate Crime Awareness Week at Aspire Community Hub, Hereford on Monday October 14th, 12pm - 3pm. Enjoy interactive theatre by Talking Props, a pre-recorded interview with Lorraine Kelly and Abi Austen and much more.
Come along, help raise awareness of and support victims of hate crime in our communities. Visit the Eventbrite website to book your free place.
Help Shape Herefordshire's Suicide Prevention Strategy
A group of Herefordshire partners, including Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise (VCSE) organisations and Herefordshire Council, would like to understand your experiences with suicide and suicide prevention to inform the new suicide prevention strategy.
Your feedback is vital in shaping the strategy and action plan to strengthen suicide prevention and bereavement support in our community, where it is most needed.
If you are a Herefordshire resident and would like to participate please visit the Talk Community Directory for more information.
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Herefordshire Cares Do you want to make a difference to people's lives every day? Working in social care is a rewarding career – to find out more about a career in adult social care, visit the Herefordshire Cares website.