Date: 28th April
This project has been designed to provide self – defence and martial arts classes, for all of our residents, by collaborating with local business ‘Flow Martial Arts’, that understands person-centred support and utilises a local community venue, further supporting the local economy.
We aim to encourage residents to become more physically active and support them to gain knowledge and the skills that will make them aware of how to defend themselves.
These classes will be provided for all genders, using an understanding of our resident’s complex needs and enabling resident’s to use their lived experiences to widen the trainers knowledge of trauma.
Many of our residents have experienced Homelessness, domestic abuse and have complex needs, which can often lead to neglect of their physical and mental health needs. In our services, we encourage everyone to participate in activities that are beneficial to both.
Our WAVE team underpins the work that we do across the organisation, providing well-being support, activities, volunteering and education opportunities through an informal education model.
Our counsellors, Activity and Volunteer Coordinators Team, all play a vital part in supporting residents and volunteers to access opportunities within both the local communities and the communities with Harbour Housing.
We use the power of informal education to challenge the norm, champion the truth, open up minds and learn about the community around us. Every day looks different at Harbour, but we have a range of ad-hoc activities coproduced by residents, on offer across most of our sites every week.
Self-defence has been a common theme of interest, as many residents that join us have lived experience of domestic and sexual abuse. Self-defence has proven to increase confidence, awareness and community support. Physically, it can help to build and tone muscle strength and improve flexibility and energy levels, which can support those residents who reside with us through Hospital discharge.
Physical exertion can also help to reduce stress and clear the mind, as extreme focus is required. It is important that our clients feel safe when they are participating in activities, and we have developed a relationship with a local business, Flow Martial Arts, as they understand the provision of supporting adults with vulnerabilities.
The interest in this project has been co-developed with residents based on their current interests and community-identified needs. We held a taster session with the Martial Arts school, which was well attended. Reflections included the tutor’s ability to manage triggers of trauma within this environment, adjustments to allow further breaks and the adaptations for those with physical health or mobility needs.
With this funding, we are able to run the project for a year with weekly classes set in place for our residents. It also provides the capital to obtain our own equipment, such as Boxing pads, which will enhance the training sessions and allow the project to grow.
https://www.sportengland.org/
https://www.flowmartialarts.co.uk/
9th September
Cultural feast shared by staff celebrates diversity and inclusion.
Harbour Housing recognised the generosity of one of its own colleagues through its Act of Kindness Award, celebrating the everyday
23rd June
13th June
9th June
27th May
22nd May
