The drop in session gave people a quick, confidential check and simple advice on staying healthy. It ran alongside the regular smoking cessation group, giving anyone thinking about cutting down or quitting the chance to speak to trained advisers about the support available.
The event also brought together a range of local services, including mental health support from Mentell, information from Stockport Credit Union, and advice on other help available in the community.
One resident, Kevin, stopped by the library with his 14 month old daughter to look at some books and decided to take advantage of the free health check while he was there. Having quit smoking when his first child was born, Kevin has been focusing on improving his health and wellbeing.
Kevin
It seemed like a good opportunity to check in on my health and make sure everything was OK. Thankfully it was, and it was really useful to have it done while I was already here.
The day also highlighted how local support can make a difference beyond physical health.
Sarah, a local resident, shared how getting involved in a local volunteering opportunity at Dunton Towers in Brinnington has helped improve her wellbeing. Living with several health conditions and anxiety, she recently started volunteering with support from people in her community and now helps to care for bedding plants and outdoor spaces for local residents. She also regularly visits Brinnington Library to take part in support groups and activities, helping her build confidence, learn new skills and stay connected to other people in her community.
Sarah
I'm taking baby steps at the moment, but volunteering has really given me a lift. Having a little responsibility and something positive to focus on has helped me feel more confident. I've been coming to the library to learn more about plants and gardening, and it's great to know the work I'm doing will benefit other people too.
People will have a garden they can enjoy, and I get the chance to be involved in helping my community without any pressure.
Cllr Mark Roberts, Leader of Stockport Council
Live Well is about bringing support closer to people and making it easier to access support in the places they already use and trust.
Whether it's having a simple blood pressure check, getting support to stop smoking, finding information about local services or taking part in volunteering opportunities, these small steps can have a big impact on people's health and wellbeing. Kevin and Sarah's stories show the difference that local support and community connections can make.
What's particularly encouraging is seeing residents use these opportunities in ways that work for them, whether that's checking in on their physical health, building confidence through volunteering or connecting with others in their community. That's exactly what Live Well is all about.
Brinnington Library is one of Stockport's Live Well spaces, offering signposting to information, guidance and community events. Residents can also explore the Live Well Directory online for help with health, wellbeing, money, family life and more.
Thank you to everyone who came along and took a positive step towards living well locally. Find out more about Live Well.
