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WDH Sandwell (Wider Determinants of Health Sandwell) was developed in response to the significant health inequalities across the borough, where many residents face disadvantage and barriers to accessing support. In early 2024, Black Country Healthcare Foundation Trust, Communities in Sync (CIS), and a network of Sandwell-based voluntary and community organisations came together to deliver a service that looked beyond clinical care, focusing on the wider social, environmental and economic factors that shape health and wellbeing. The aim was to provide earlier, more holistic support that could make a meaningful difference to people’s lives.
Over 18 months, the project worked alongside more than 3,000 residents, offering personalised support to help people manage day-to-day challenges, improve their wellbeing, and build greater stability. This included practical advice around finance, welfare and employment, alongside a wide range of wellbeing activities that helped reduce isolation and strengthen community connections. Dedicated support ensured the service was accessible to those facing additional barriers, including migrants, refugees, women, older adults, and people experiencing housing instability, with targeted provision such as ESOL, digital inclusion and outreach support.
Impact and Feedback
- 3,033 residents supported
- 4,231 interventions delivered and over 35,000 contacts
- 2,256 onward referrals to wider support services
- 97% reported a positive difference
- 87% said their situation improved
- 84% experienced improved mental wellbeing
- 100% satisfaction rate, with 99% recommending the service
Delivered through a strong partnership model, WDH Sandwell enabled organisations to work together to provide joined-up, responsive support, ensuring residents could access the right help at the right time. Feedback from residents highlights the difference this approach made, while also demonstrating the wider value of community-led, preventative services in reducing pressure on statutory systems and strengthening local resilience for the future.
This project was delivered by the following organisations:
For more information about the WDH Sandwell project please email:
This project is delivered with thanks to funding from:
Related Case Studies
Weekly walks providing benefits
Prior to coming on the wellbeing walks I was feeling lonely as I had lost my husband only recently. I didn't have people to speak to.
Lifestyle changes improving health and wellness
Since leaving work, I had put on four stone, yet I generally considered my health and fitness okay, although I did have a pacemaker following heart complications as well as osteoarthritis.
Help with housing and health
I was in a tough spot. I’m living in a hotel, feeling really down and having health problems. My child has special needs, ADHD, and a learning disability.
Getting active to boost wellbeing
I joined the WDH Sandwell service to socialise, be active, make new friends, and gain more independence. Break thru has helped me to become more active without having to go to the Gym, and I have learnt fitness techniques I can do at home.
Community connection through creative crafting
Before I came to Ileys Community Association I felt overwhelmed, lonely, and disconnected from my surroundings. I needed to get out of the house
Changing unhealthy drinking habits
I have mild learning difficulties and issues with my leg following an accident 20+ years ago. I was drinking every single day. I really wanted to cut down and even consider stopping for good. I don't want to be someone who is defined by my disabilities and difficulties.
Help with ill-health and time off work
I’ve suffered with anaemia for 20 years, but in April 2022, I was taken off my iron supplements by my GP as recent blood tests had come back with more positive results. When I came off the supplements, things began to change.
Ukrainian mom re-builds emotional strength
I am a Ukrainian war victim. I left my home country to save the lives of my three children and immigrated to the United Kingdom under the Homes for Ukraine scheme. I was terrified, worried, and lonely without family or friends.
A new home for a friendship group
When I first came here it was with all my friends from another centre that shut down. We used to hang out, talk and watch telly, and it was a safe space for us.
Community centre supporting relocated family
I am 45 years old, a single mother of three beautiful children. Life has not been easy for us, especially with my limited English skills. I remember the first few months in this new country. My children were trying to adjust to their new schools while I juggled multiple cleaning jobs to make ends meet.
Facing eviction as a single parent
I was served a Section 21 eviction notice and was I was feeling very stressed and found it hard to have a positive outlook on my situation. I am a single parent to a child with additional needs
From volunteering into paid employment
I have always been a person who thrives off helping others and being able to share my own skills with others. Through WDH Sandwell, I have been receiving support from the Kuumba team in developing my job ready skills and I now have a job!
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