Welcome to Yorkshire
News • September 16th, 2026
|More residents in York are set to receive valuable support for their health and wellbeing, thanks to a significant funding boost of £14,000 from the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority. This funding will enable the City of York Council to expand its Community Health Champions programme, allowing local volunteers to assist their neighbours in accessing essential health services and support.
Funding For New Champions
The recent funding will help recruit and train a new team of Community Health Champions in neighbourhoods such as Westfield, Clifton, and Hull Road. These champions are local volunteers who play a crucial role in connecting residents with information and services, making it easier for them to find the help they need. With the addition of 30 new champions, the programme aims to reach individuals who might not engage with traditional health services, thus breaking down barriers to access.
What Are Community Health Champions?
Community Health Champions are local residents who offer support to their neighbours by sharing trusted advice and information. They help people navigate health services before issues escalate into more serious problems.
Councillor Lucy Steels-Walshaw, who is the Executive Member for Health, Wellbeing, and Adult Social Care at the City of York Council, highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating:
“Where people live has a significant influence on their health, and many residents in York continue to face barriers to accessing the support they need. Strengthening community-based approaches is an important part of addressing this.”
Training And Support
The champions receive training and ongoing support, enabling them to effectively share health messages and direct residents to services that address various health concerns, including:
Mental wellbeing
Healthy lifestyles
Stopping smoking
Managing long-term health conditions
This training equips them with the skills necessary to make a real difference in their communities, fostering a healthier environment for all.
Success Stories From Existing Champions
Current champions have already made a positive impact through various initiatives that promote health and community connection. For instance, champions Sarah and Susan recently collaborated with the York City FC Foundation on the Changing Rooms Project. This initiative focuses on recycling sports kits and equipment, redistributing donated items to families in need.
During a community event at St Joseph's Church in Clifton, these volunteers helped collect and distribute sports clothing and equipment, thereby reducing barriers to physical activity in the area. Other successful projects led by Community Health Champions include:
Let’s Walk York: A sight-guided walking group for adults with learning disabilities, sight loss, and visual impairments.
Strictly Fun Dancing: Inclusive dance sessions designed to make movement enjoyable for people of all ages and abilities.
Community wellbeing activities that link residents with local support and services.
These initiatives demonstrate how champions leverage their local knowledge and connections to enhance community wellbeing.
The Importance Of Active Living
David Skaith, the Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, expressed his support for the programme by saying:
“Sport changed my life and saved my life. I want more people to have the same opportunities to lead more active lives, improving their physical and mental health, which is why I am delighted that we are supporting the Health Champions programme with this funding.”
He emphasised the role of movement and activity in improving mental health and reducing social isolation, underlining the importance of grassroots initiatives like this one in creating a thriving community.
Looking Ahead
Over the next year, the expanded Community Health Champions programme will focus on recruiting 30 new champions and strengthening community networks, especially in areas where health inequalities are most pronounced. This effort aims to empower local residents to become champions of health in their own right.
Individuals interested in becoming a Community Health Champion will receive free training and ongoing support, allowing them to make a positive difference in their neighbourhood while developing new skills and building confidence.
For those looking to get involved or learn more about the programme, additional information can be found on the City of York Council's website.
