Free Wellbeing Packs
Since the introduction of lock down, Brooksbank Centre & Services has found that people with young children/caring commitments and/or those with severe mental health issues could be experiencing additional financial pressure as a result of Covid-19. After considering the needs of these target groups, we began to think about how we could improve the way we deliver our services. We wanted to find a way of making sure people in these groups were informed about all of the extra financial help that has sprung up in Dundee. With the help of The Scottish Government, we have been able to commit to delivering 500 free, tailored Wellbeing packs, in partnership with other specifically identified projects in Dundee.
Three hundred of these packages are being delivered to low income families; these contain additional items such as toys for children and pets, family first aid kits with a fantastic easy read 1st aid book. We have thermal heat protectors for hair straighteners, toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, hand wipes, recipe books and more. Two hundred of the Wellbeing packs cater for people struggling with severe mental health issues; in addition to the forehead thermometer, we are providing toiletries and adult colouring in books and pencils.
When individuals contact Brooksbank for money advice, child safety advice, or general enquires, we then go on to ask if they are interested in our Wellbeing box. We spend some time chatting on the phone, so we can find out as much as we can about any other problems, ranging from chronic health issues to food insecurity.
Other ways of accessing the service are through Referral partners, local organisations and health professionals. Whether the referral originates at Brooksbank, or from a partner such as Parent to Parent, the named person will be offered a full benefit check; we will ask if they use pre-paid meters for household fuel and if so, refer them to the organisations assisting with emergency top-ups. We will also discuss debts, housing issues; child safety, care needs and more.
If you would like further information about our Wellbeing packs, please call us on 01382 432450.
