Strong local impact keeps community health champions programme with PCP

Following a competitive tender process, award-winning health and wellbeing charity, Pioneering Care Partnership (PCP) has been reappointed to deliver the Community Health and Wellbeing Champions Programme. The programme aims to reduce health inequalities through an equitable approach to capacity building, through the recruitment, support, and training of Champions who live or work in the Borough of Stockton-on-Tees.

Helen Dent, Head of Programmes and Impact (South), said: “Securing this contract recognises the real difference the Champions have already made across Stockton-on-Tees. From 2021 PCP has built a strong champion network, supporting over 150 local people, enabling many meaningful interactions with residents - often in places and communities where traditional services struggle to reach.

“That impact comes from trust, lived experience and long-term relationships. Continuing this work means we can keep listening to communities, tackling barriers to health literacy and supporting accessible community-led prevention.”

Lea Richarson Stockton Project Manager, Helen Dent Head of Projects and Impact (South) and Vicky Williamson Project Support Officer.

In partnership with Public Health at Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, this established network will continue to empower and supports communities in Stockton-on-Tees with a vision to ‘make every contact count’.

Leila Elliott, a Champion, said: “Being a Community Health and Wellbeing Champion means being there for people in a way that feels real and relatable. It’s about listening, sharing trusted information and helping others feel more confident about their health and where to go for support.

“For me, it’s about giving something back to my community. I’ve seen how small conversations can make a big difference - whether that’s helping someone access a service, feel less alone, or take a positive step for their wellbeing. It’s rewarding to know you’re part of something that’s building stronger, healthier communities from within.”

If you would like to become a Champion or find out more information, contact sccc@pcp.uk.net