5 Ways to Well-Being

5 Ways to Wellbeing

At Global Rise CIC, we integrate the 5 Ways to Well-Being framework into all of our projects and activities. This evidence-based approach, developed by the New Economics Foundation, is designed to promote mental, emotional, and physical well-being. The five key actions – Connect, Be Active, Take Notice, Keep Learning, and Give – are simple, effective ways that individuals and communities can improve their overall health and happiness. By embedding these principles into our work, we help individuals and communities lead more fulfilling, resilient, and empowered lives.

What Are the 5 Ways to Well-Being?

Connect

Be Active

Take Notice

Give

Keep Learning

The 5 Ways to Well-Being are five simple, practical actions that everyone can incorporate into their daily lives to enhance mental and emotional health. These actions have been shown to improve well-being on both an individual and a community level.

The five ways are:

Connect

Building and nurturing meaningful relationships with family, friends, colleagues, and community members.

Definition:

Why It Matters:

Human beings are inherently social, and strong, supportive relationships are key to mental well-being. Positive connections with others help reduce feelings of isolation, increase self-worth, and provide emotional support during challenging times. Connecting with others can also foster a sense of belonging, reducing the likelihood of loneliness and social disconnection.

How We Embed It in Our Work:

· Community Cafés: Our community cafés create a welcoming environment where people can come together, share meals, and connect with others. These spaces encourage conversation and build networks, helping reduce isolation, especially for vulnerable groups.

· Volunteering Opportunities: By engaging in our various projects and social enterprises, individuals build strong relationships with fellow volunteers and community members.

· Social Events and Workshops: We organize events where people can meet, share ideas, and support one another in meaningful ways.

Be Active

Engaging in physical activity that promotes physical health and boosts mental well-being.

Definition:

Why It Matters:

Regular physical activity is proven to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression while increasing energy levels and overall happiness. Staying active not only improves physical health but also enhances mental alertness and emotional stability. It’s also a great way to connect with others and have fun.

How We Embed It in Our Work:

· Outdoor Projects: We run community gardening and environmental sustainability projects that encourage participants to engage in physical activity while working towards a shared goal.

· Exercise Programs: We offer free or low-cost fitness programs, such as walking groups, bike repair workshops, and sports activities, ensuring that everyone has access to opportunities to stay active.

· Youth Initiatives: Our training programs for young people, such as learning to refurbish bikes, include hands-on, active learning that helps them stay physically engaged.

Take notice

Being mindful of the present moment and appreciating the world around you, including thoughts, feelings, and the environment

Definition:

Why It Matters:

Taking notice, or practicing mindfulness, helps individuals remain grounded and aware of their thoughts and surroundings. Mindfulness improves emotional regulation, reduces stress, and helps build a deeper appreciation for life. It encourages people to slow down, reflect, and cultivate gratitude.

How We Embed It in Our Work:

· Mindful Spaces: Our community cafés and centers are designed to be peaceful, welcoming environments where people can take a moment to relax, reflect, and be present.

· Environmental Awareness: Our sustainability projects emphasize reconnecting with nature. Through community gardens, outdoor workshops, and green spaces, we encourage people to take notice of the natural environment and its role in our well-being.

Creative Workshops: We offer art, crafts, and mindfulness sessions that encourage participants to focus on the present moment and engage their sense

Keep Learning

Engaging in lifelong learning by acquiring new skills, knowledge, and experiences.

Definition:

Why It Matters:

Continuous learning is vital for cognitive function, self-esteem, and personal development. It fosters curiosity, helps people stay mentally active, and can lead to new opportunities and a greater sense of purpose. Whether it's formal education or learning a new hobby, keeping the mind engaged enhances well-being.

How We Embed It in Our Work:

· Training Programs: We offer training in a variety of skills, such as bike and furniture repair, that allow individuals to learn something new while contributing to the community. These programs are designed for all ages and backgrounds, from young people to adults re-entering the workforce.

· Workshops and Courses: We regularly host workshops in everything from digital literacy to creative arts, ensuring that there are learning opportunities for everyone in the community.

· Educational Partnerships: We collaborate with local educational institutions to provide learning pathways, including helping individuals access formal education, apprenticeships, and vocational training.

Give

Giving time, resources, or help to others, whether through volunteering or simple acts of kindness.

Definition:

Why It Matters:

Giving is a powerful way to enhance well-being. Acts of kindness and generosity create positive feelings, build stronger social connections, and increase self-esteem. When individuals give to others, whether through time or support, it fosters a sense of purpose and community solidarity..

How We Embed It in Our Work:

· Volunteer Opportunities: Global Rise CIC relies on volunteers to power many of our projects. Volunteering provides a sense of purpose and the opportunity to make meaningful contributions to the community.

· Community Support Programs: Through our charity shop and other community enterprises, we encourage giving by providing essential goods and services to those in need.

· Peer Support Networks: Many of our projects include opportunities for individuals to give back by sharing their skills or experiences with others in the community, fostering a culture of mutual support.

Embedding the 5 Ways to Well-Being in Global Rise CIC's Projects

At Global Rise CIC, we don't just advocate for the 5 Ways to Well-Being—we live them. Every project we run, from social enterprises to community cafés, is designed with these five principles at its core. By embedding these actions into everything we do, we ensure that our activities promote mental and physical well-being for everyone involved. Here's how we make the 5 Ways to Well-Being a fundamental part of our operations:

Holistic Approach to Project Design

We consciously integrate opportunities for connection, learning, activity, mindfulness, and giving into each project. Whether it's training young people to fix bikes or organizing community health programs, the 5 Ways guide the way we structure our programs.

Partnerships with Health and Social Services

We collaborate with healthcare providers and local councils to incorporate well-being programs into our community projects. By aligning with public health strategies, we ensure that our projects contribute to overall community well-being.

Encouraging Community Participation

Every project we initiate invites active participation, be it through volunteering, learning, or contributing ideas. By creating an inclusive environment, we empower individuals to apply the 5 Ways in their everyday lives, enhancing both personal and collective well-being

Training and Empowerment

Many of our social enterprises and projects focus on skill development, allowing participants to keep learning and give back to the community. Our training programs, such as those focused on furniture and bike repair, not only equip individuals with practical skills but also foster a sense of achievement and contribution.

→

Creating Inclusive Spaces

Spaces like our community cafés and social enterprises are designed to facilitate all five principles. They provide areas where people can gather, stay active, learn, be mindful, and give back to others.

By embedding the 5 Ways to Well-Being in all of our projects, Global Rise CIC creates a sustainable model for community development. These principles not only support individual mental and physical health but also foster a sense of community and collective resilience. As a result, we build healthier, happier communities that are capable of driving their own development and ensuring long-term success.

In summary, the 5 Ways to Well-Being—Connect, Be Active, Take Notice, Keep Learning, and Give—serve as guiding principles for Global Rise CIC's community work. By aligning our projects with these principles, we create opportunities for personal growth, community development, and long-term sustainability, making a lasting impact on both individuals and the broader community.

The Sustainability of Well-Being