Voluntary and community organisations across Somerset are being encouraged to take part in a new training initiative designed to help strengthen healthier eating messages and support community wellbeing.
‘Focusing on MORE’ is a collaborative health promotion programme delivered by NHS Somerset Integrated Care Board (ICB) and Somerset Council. The half-day workshops provide practical, evidence-based guidance to help staff and volunteers promote compassionate and sustainable approaches to nutrition that can make a real difference in people’s everyday lives.
The sessions are open to colleagues and volunteers working across the Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise (VCSE) sector, as well as professionals in health, education and social care. Organisers are particularly keen to welcome organisations that support residents at a grassroots level and help shape healthier communities.
The workshops are led by Lesley Harper, Registered Dietitian at NHS Somerset ICB, and Tamara Bennett, Registered Public Health Nutritionist at Somerset Council. They focus on building confidence in sharing clear, consistent and positive messages about food and health.
Participants will explore a range of topics including:
- The importance of the gut microbiome for overall health
- Why a compassionate, non-judgemental approach supports healthier choices for everyone
- The impact of food processing on nutritional quality
- Evidence-based guidance on how to eat more of the foods that support gut health
- Practical ideas and resources to help overcome barriers to healthier eating
Councillor Graham Oakes, Somerset Council’s Lead Member for Public Health, Climate Change and the Environment, said:
Voluntary and community organisations play a vital role in supporting the health and wellbeing of our residents.
The ‘Focusing on MORE’ workshops are a great opportunity for staff and volunteers to build their knowledge and confidence in promoting positive, practical messages about healthier eating.
By working together with our community partners, we can help create a more resilient Somerset where people feel supported to make sustainable choices that benefit their long-term health.
In-person workshops are being delivered at venues across Somerset, alongside shorter 30-minute online taster sessions for those unable to attend a full session. Further continuing professional development opportunities are also available for those who wish to deepen their learning.
The programme aims to equip Somerset’s workforce and volunteer networks with the skills and confidence to share consistent, evidence-based nutritional messages within the communities they support. A future ‘train the trainer’ approach is also being explored to enable wider community learning.
Voluntary and community organisations interested in attending are encouraged to get in touch to find out more about upcoming sessions and availability.
For more information, visit Health Somerset’s Focusing on MORE page or book your place via the partnership’s Eventbrite page.
