In May 2024, 50 people (14% of participants) completed an impact assessment.

The assessment was available online through Survey Monkey and in paper format. It was open  to current and past participants and advertised by email, Facebook and word of mouth.

 

Q1 Taking part in Blossoming Communities workshops and activities, has had a positive impact on my wellbeing and mental health.

100% of respondents agreed with this statement.

• I feel so much better since starting this group.
• Cramlington group began at a time when I was newly widowed and struggling in all ways especially
socially having been virtually housebound and isolated for 3 years
• When I’m participating in the different activities you leave what’s worrying you behind for a couple
of hours
• Doing community things helps with my depression
• They have been amazing for me as being new to the area and made me feel welcome and supportive after having health issue last year
• Good for my spirit

Q2 Taking part in Blossoming Communities workshops and activities, has led me to participate in
other opportunities. (e.g. volunteering, new activities or other projects).

 

66% of participants have gone on to participate in other opportunities.

• I’ve volunteered at the old peoples home a few times helping with the craft sessions. I’ve tried
many new activities that I never thought I’d be able to do I also volunteered at Elf School
• Gave me confidence to join in other activities in Seaton Sluice
• Helped me build my confidence to try out new things and attempt to mix with others
• I now volunteer and help others at church.

Q3 I have built new, supportive relationships and friendships thanks to Blossoming Communities.

 

92% of respondents said they relationships and friendships.

• It is good to mix with other workshop attendees who I would not normally see in my day to day life.
• Am now a little open
• Have made lots of friendships through blossoming communities
• I have made friends with other people who attend the craft workshops. The camaraderie is lovely
and uplifting.
• I see the people in the groups/sessions as extended family and seek their support, guidance and
wisdom.

Q4 I feel a sense of belonging and less isolated being part of Blossoming Communities activities.

 

98 % of respondents have noticed the feel less isolated.

 

• Helps to know other people share similar problems
• This group are like a family a sense of belonging very important to a lot of people.
• Helped me to go out into the community struggled to leave home after covid
• I initially joined because I felt isolated due to bereavement it has made such a difference spending
time with caring people
• I always feel part of the group as everyone makes you feel so welcome

 

Q5 I feel valued and heard in Blossoming Communities workshops and activities.

 

100% of respondents feel valued and heard.

• BC staff do an amazing job of creating personal, trusting relationships with everyone and making
everyone feel independently heard, seen, welcome and engaged!
• The warm welcome I get each week is priceless and new people are made to feel at home.
• I feel able to make suggestions in the groups and these are listened to.
• No ideas or suggestions are ever fobbed off they are always open to suggestions
• Always listened to be it in regard to a craft idea or personal situation. There is always someone
there to show you the way.

Q6 I have learnt things at Blossoming Communities, that I have continued at home or shared with other people.

 

93% of respondents have shared or continued things they have learnt.

• So many crafty items that I’ve made and being shown my grandchildren how to do.
• Share positive quotes and helped others to believe in themselves
• I love the crafts, but I have really enjoyed the well-being elements and the focus on positivity! I use
my positivity peg in my office all the time!
• I used skills I have learnt at Blossoming Communities with my Granddaughter which in turn she
used to help raise funds for her school.

 

Q7 The biggest impact being part of Blossoming Communities has had on my life is.......

 

• Friendship and laughter
• Getting out
• I have made some friends that I will cherish and knowing that there is someone there just to listen,
feels good
• Making me feel I can cope
• Been accepted for who I really am
• People where there when I needed them and were asking if I was doing alright, I appreciate their concern as it helped me a lot. Thanks girls xx
• The feeling of worth

 

Q8 Is there anything else you would like us to know?

 

• Best thing I ever did
• Yes I think they help a lot of people from being lonely.
• I feel so grateful to this group it helped me when I was bereaved and lost. It really is a wonderful
group
• It’s the highlight of my week.
• Blossoming communities is the best thing I have ever been to in my life. I have never been to a
more friendly group.