‘Bite Size Learning Healthy Lifestyles Programme’ (BSLHLP) Community Learning & Development   Presentation to National Early Years Conference Parallel Session ‘A Focus on Engagement and Empowerment of Children, Families and Communities’ Presentation ‘Bite Size Learning Healthy Lifestyles Programme’ (BSLHLP) Gina Ahmed, Community Learning & Development Alan Addison, Community Learning & Development

Community Learning & Development   Definition of Community Learning & Development (CLD) ‘CLD is learning and social development work with individuals and groups in their communities using a range of formal and informal methods. A common defining feature is that programmes and activities are developed in dialogue with communities and participants… CLD’s main aim is to help individuals and communities tackle real issues in their lives through community action and community based learning’. (Working and Learning Together to Build Strong Communities, Scottish Government Guidance for CLD 2004)

Forth Neighbourhood CLD Team Mission Statement: Community Learning & Development   Forth Neighbourhood CLD Team Mission Statement: ‘To Work with Children, Young People and Adults providing learning & development opportunities which help tackle poverty, educational disadvantage and poor health’ (Forth CLD Neighbourhood Team Plan July 2010)

What is Bite-Size Learning Community Learning & Development   What is Bite-Size Learning Adult educational programme designed to engage those most often hardest to reach. Often a first and important step for some Informal community based approach to learning valuing lived experiences Dialogical/hands-on learning programme (see handout) Consultative process (before and throughout) Partnership work/Collective approach Inclusive learning environment Introduction to topics of interest – adaptable framework. A way forward – Going Forth

Going Forth Consultation with NHS Community Learning & Development   Going Forth Consultation with NHS Came about as a result of an identified need for a more holistic approach to address increasing obesity rates, particularly in children. The Scottish government/NHS HEAT H3 target on child healthy weight was introduced in Better Health, Better Care in Dec 2007. NHS Lothian negotiated a change in approach from weight management to one that included prevention and treatment. The new approach includes learning from the French EPODE programme and is being developed in consultation and involvement from the community, schools and partner organisations (including CLD).

BSLHL Programme was Born (see BSLHLP handout) Community Learning & Development   Taking it Forward: BSLHL Programme was Born (see BSLHLP handout) A pilot at Craigroyston ps A result of GF consultation/report/previous GF programmes. Recruitment: Further consultation with local parent/carers individuals/groups. Advertising in local paper School gate visit – lots of ground work Flyers/posters 1-1 contact with local parents Meeting with head teachers & partner organisations

2010 BSLHL Plan / Progression Routes Community Learning & Development   2010 BSLHL Plan / Progression Routes

Community Learning & Development  

Community Learning & Development   What Makes BSL work: Planning time Consultation / listening (suitable time/day/topics/level etc) Relaxed atmosphere (breakfast – NHS funded) Valuing and sharing lived experience Support & encouragement within the group Belief in people Being part of a community group Starting where people are at and taking small steps Crèche provision (NHS funded) Monitoring & evaluation of programme Recognising achievements / outcomes Progression choices

Quotes from BSL – local parents/carers Community Learning & Development   Quotes from BSL – local parents/carers ‘I had never been to the gym in my life, now I go twice a week’ ‘I’ve made new friends and feel much more confident’ ‘I’m loving it, BSL has made such a difference in my life’ ‘Me and my kids now do so much more together’ ‘I have now become a volunteer at my child's school – thanks BSL’ ‘I just cant believe the things I’m doing now’

Community Learning & Development   Outcomes of BSLHLP: 20 local adults doing SVQ in Child Development EL passes allows individuals to visit gym Parent/child swimming New family activity session MMC womens group Stronger links with local schools More adults/children attending centre activities Additional exercises classes Increased sense of community spirit – friendships formed, community walk Planned cooking session in partnership with PCHP Increased sense of responsibility, belief and self-worth Personal achievement (more exercise, better diet, more family time) Increased partnership work Local people involved in ongoing evaluation BLSHLP

Community Learning & Development   Partners: NHS Lothian Edinburgh Leisure PCHP (Barri Grubb & Move It) School Educational Psychologists (CEC) Head Teachers & School Staff (CEC) Working For Families (CEC)