C.H.A.T. – short for Change, Hope and Transition, is a St George’s project run in partnership with Age UK Wakefield. It aims to offer local people the opportunity chat and access free, non-judgemental support that is led by their needs.
Support may be needed for lots of different reasons – a break up, a job loss, new caring responsibilities, bereavement or diagnosis of an illness, for example.
Individuals can access C.H.A.T. via the drop-in sessions every Wednesday, 2-3pm or can be referred / self-refer themselves for 1-2-1 support by calling 01924 269631.
Our C.H.A.T. worker Kay can usually offer support at a location convenient for each person she sees.
Kay listens to her client’s concerns and works with them to create a plan of action.
One example of the impact C.H.A.T. has had is this story Kay shared from a drop-in session:
“One week, two strangers attended the session, and found out they had worked in the same industry. These men had specific shared work experiences that had impacted their wellbeing, but which others might find hard to relate to. Swapping insights helped them both… and offered a unique opportunity to heal.”
A carer who received 1-2-1 support from C.H.A.T. had this to say:
“I look after my dad and have recently experienced significant health issues myself. With the pandemic as well I just found myself feeling increasingly anxious, unwell and alone… it was really helpful to get home visits. I was able to chat about my worries… Getting referrals for practical support made day-to-day life much easier too.”
Navigating the various options for support can be overwhelming, so C.H.A.T. works to help people find the right resources for them.
We’re proud to be part of a vibrant third sector here in Wakefield, working alongside the community and local GPs to help improve and maintain locals’ health and wellbeing. We look forward to continuing C.H.A.T.’s work in our community alongside these fantastic organisations.
For further information on C.H.A.T. or to complete a referral please contact us on 01924 369631 or email kaymorgan@ageukwd.org.uk.
