A PROGRAMME aimed at boosting confidence and well-being used in Ellesmere Port has proved so successful it is attracting international interest.

The Royal Society for Public Health invited the team behind Cheshire West and Chester Council’s ‘Five to Strive’ to an international conference in London.

The programme has several strands: a confidence and well-being course, volunteer mentoring and a wellbeing toolkit – which was the focus of the conference.

Delegates from across the globe listened to the team explain how the toolkit is helping the council create action plans to improve the well-being of individuals and communities.

Situated in community centres, shopping centres and GP surgeries, the toolkit enables local residents to rate themselves using a set of visual aids on the ‘five ways to well-being: connect, take notice, be active, keep learning and give’.

It was developed by the council, new economics foundation, local residents and agencies, and funded by the Local Government Improvement and Development Agency.

Cllr Brenda Dowding, executive member for adult social care and health, said: “I am delighted at the enormous success of the Five to Strive programme.

“It is a testament to the council’s commitment to work closely with communities to engage and interact with them on their individual needs and issues.

“The toolkit is an innovative new way of working with local communities to offer residents the opportunity to make a real and positive difference by providing the support they need.”

For more on the programme, visit www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk or call Graham Garnett on 01244 972 609.