Support with health, wellbeing and leisure

We know that anxiety around money and other things can have a big impact on your mental health and wellbeing. That’s why it’s so important to reach out for help if you’re struggling. Here’s a list of organisations you can get in touch with for help:

• Community Links is a charity offering mental health and wellbeing services throughout the Yorkshire and Humber region
• Age UK helps millions of over-60s every year, providing support, companionship and advice
• The Mix Counselling Service offers help with mental health and emotional wellbeing for those aged 25 and under
• Andy’s Man Club runs weekly, free-to-attend peer-to-peer support groups for men aged 18+
• Samaritans offers listening and support services to people and communities in times of need
• Mind is a charity providing mental health information and support
• Healthy Minds is the doorway to mental health and wellbeing services across Bradford, Airedale, Craven and Wharfedale
• Hub of Hope provides information on local, national, peer, community, charity, private and NHS mental health support and services

Spending time doing something you enjoy can improve your mental health and wellbeing. Here are some low-cost or free things you might want to consider doing in your spare time:

• Grow your own indoor or outdoor veggie garden
• Spend time in nature — in your own backyard or a local park
• See what books your local library has to offer – learn how to knit, get recipe ideas or immerse yourself in a novel
• Check your local charity shops for second-hand board games or books
• Go to free community events – check your local council’s website or Eventbrite for upcoming events
• Visit local museums and art galleries
• Practice meditation and mindfulness
• Learn a foreign language or sign language
• Have a read of the NHS’s ‘Top tips to improve your mental wellbeing’

Regular exercise can work wonders for your mental wellbeing as well as your physical health. Here are some free or low-cost fitness options:

• Some public spaces are fitted with outdoor gym equipment people can use to exercise for free. Check your local council’s website to see if there’s one in your area or use this search tool.
• Keep a lookout for second-hand gym equipment on sites like Gumtree, Facebook Marketplace and Preloved
• Go walking, jogging, running, or cycling around your local parks and nature reserves
• If you have children, head to a public playground or have a game of football in your local park
• Try the NHS’s Couch to 5K running plan for absolute beginners
• See if there are any free yoga sessions on in your area
• Find an online fitness class on YouTube like those run by Joe Wicks
• If you suffer from depression and haven’t exercised for a long time or are concerned about the effects of exercise on your body or health, ask your GP about exercise on prescription. Depending on your situation, you may be offered an exercise programme for free or at a reduced cost

Check out these guides for free and low-cost days out in Yorkshire!

• Free days out in Yorkshire over the summer holidays!
• Join a Park Run. It’s a free, community event where you can walk, jog, run, volunteer or just watch! Find your nearest parkrun here.
• Discover scenic and traffic-free cycling routes suitable for families right across Yorkshire with Sustrans. It’ll be just like you’re taking part in the Tour-de-Yorkshire!