http://islingtontribune.com/article/lawrence-bounces-back-into-business
Terrific write up in local paper
A HIGHBURY man’s experience of unemployment inspired him to start a project that helps people get healthy and back into work.
Lawrence Curtis, 50, has worked for much of his life as an accountant in the City but struggled with dwindling motivation when he found himself out of work. His new project, Healthy Minds, Healthy Bods, is helping keep him focused and positive – and he believes it can do the same for others too.
“The financial, health and social impact of being long-term unemployed can be devastating,” says Lawrence. “Not only on the person claiming benefit, but also on those connected to them.” Lawrence says his social enterprise offers something new, because help is only given to the unemployed when, often, it’s too late. “By the time people are 12 months unemployed, people are suffering high stress, anxiety, pressure, and health problems. The unemployed are not given access to help to keep them job ready.”
His project is formed of two parts: Izz Walkz, a weekly walk around Clissold Park in partnership with Highbury Grange Medical Practice – soon to be followed by other parks in the area; and Ajani, a nine-week programme where the unemployed get access to a personal trainer, as well as health, nutrition and budgeting advice.
Lawrence has received support from Islington North MP Jeremy Corbyn and paralympian Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson, and he has been in talks with Public Health England and the Department for Work and Pensions, but funding is a struggle and he is calling on local businesses or individuals to support him with basic running costs. “Bad things happen in life, but it’s how you react to them,” says Lawrence. “I’m passionate about this project, I believe it can really make a difference.” Visit www.hmhb2016.org.uk/
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