Timebank: Stress Reduction Initiative in Kent

People in Kent have access to stress reduction courses free of charge as a result of initiatives led by IAHV volunteers. For 2008-09, IAHV has teamed up with the new Hereson Time Bank launched in September 2008 at Hereson Family and Community Centre in Ramsgate.  This community project is managed by leading children’s charity Action for Children, formerly known as NCH. Action for Children is committed to helping vulnerable children, young people and their family in the UK break through injustice, deprivation and inequality, so they can achieve their full potential.  

“I am now more aware of my breathing and how deep breathing instantly makes me feel calmer and more energised. I have learned the value of having time to myself in meditation as I feel I have a
happier mind afterwards and a definite spring in my step”
Sophie, Participant

Recognising local needs, IAHV volunteers developed and delivered stress reduction courses in Kent. Aimed at disadvantaged and less privileged members of the community, the objective of the courses is firstly to reduce stress, then to go on to empower individuals and give them confidence about their lives.

For 2008-09, IAHV has been able significantly to expand the reach of these stress reduction courses by teaming up with the Hereson Time Bank in Ramsgate, to offer physical and emotional support to families within the area. The Hereson Time Bank encourages individuals and their families to volunteer within communities and matches their skills with opportunities that suit their lifestyles.                          

The focus of Hereson Time Bank is to empower families who have experienced social exclusion and isolation. Through regular courses participants will learn simple, yet powerful breathing techniques that will eliminate stress from the system, improve overall health and enhance mental focus. Based on IAHV’s Breath Water Sound courses, this principle works on strengthening the individuals first, inspiring a sense of greater responsibility and belongingness amongst them and using this to eventually uplift and empower the community in which they live.  

The Time Bank project is running in partnership with:  

• The Big Lottery Fund
• The Thanet Community Development Trust,
• Eastern and Coastal Kent Primary Care Trust
• Kent County Council
• IAHV

If you would like to help IAHV or Hereson Time Bank in Kent, please contact farnaaz@hotmail.co.uk.