We are delighted to have been chosen as one of the dioceses to take part in the Renew Wellbeing pilot in the Church of England.
This will involve us being able to offer free information, training and support in person to any parish in the Diocese wanting to open a Renew Wellbeing space.
Speaking about the pilot, Diocesan Secretary Iain Blythe said: "I am so pleased that we are one of the dioceses chosen to take part in the Renew Wellbeing pilot programme. This is a fantastic opportunity for churches in our diocese to get involved with creating prayerful spaces of calm and welcome, and it also aligns with our bold outcome to create new Christian communities."
What is a Renew Wellbeing Space?
Being prayerful • Being present • Being in partnership
Renew Wellbeing helps churches open spaces of welcome and inclusion for over 18s in partnership with mental health teams to improve mental and emotional wellbeing.
Renew spaces are simple cafe style spaces run by local churches where hobbies and activities are shared or co-produced. Each cafe space is attached to a quiet room or prayer space where inner habits of wellbeing are shared. Each church partners with a mental health professional from the local council or other suitable organisation to ensure good inclusive practices for safe spaces where it's OK not to be OK can be sustained.
Renew Wellbeing provides information, inspiration, training and ongoing support to local churches as well as developing a simple national strategy for many small safe spaces to be made available through churches and councils working together.
Next Steps
More details about how your church can get involved will follow soon. If you would like to register your interest please get in touch with us at communications@diocant.org
You can also find more information by watching this video: