Thursday 16th March 2017 - full throttle once more

Posted 3:05pm

The last twenty four hours have been full throttle - so much going on.  I must sit down and write or a proper list of everything that is happening as it is becoming a blur.

I have met with DAI and it is all go to start next Thursday on their program.  We are approaching it with a small twist.  The nine week program will be fine.  But it may take ten weeks.  We discussed the opportunity of the first week being like an open day - discussing what we will be doing with DAI staff and the service users - giving us an opportunity to ensure all the paperwork we need is completed without it interfering with the actual first proper week, and seeing exactly what people themselves are looking to achieve by the end.  I thought it was a terrific suggestion by Andy, who runs DAI, and I think we will implement it into the program - so now it will be a "ten week programme".  It does go to show that networking, and the ability to be fluid with the project, can be a positive.

I heard back from the Highbury Walkers, and I am delighted to report that they would be happy for us to join up with them.  Their walk is on a Monday morning, and the beauty is it is already up and running, which saves us a lot of marketing.  I am going to go on their walk on the 27th March, meet everyone, and will propose we join up a couple of weeks after - so Izzwalkz HF (Highbury Fields) will officially start on the 10th April - joining Izzwalkz CP (Clissold Park) which had its 17th outing today with much success.

We are talking with SHP - it appears the start date of their program will move again - but I think we are finally getting it down to one we all agree with and are happy with.  It is essential that we can engage 100% with every partner, and understand restrictions that may pop up, so it is just a matter of being patient.  Can be stressful though, especially as we are anxious to prove our outcomes.

Had a couple of very interesting emails following out meeting yesterday with AGE UK.  We are sending them more details about a possible program with them,  They also sent us details of a commissioned Islington initiative between GP Surgeries, the NHS and employment.  I am very happy to say that it does not come even close to what we are doing - and anyone can look at the details online, so it is true to say they are doing nothing new, nothing that is already not provided within the borough, and nothing that addresses well-being and fitness and mindset.

Highbury Grange Medical Practice have amazingly asked me to Chair their internal Patient's Group, which is a privilege and honour.  That is coming up in a couple of weeks and we will bring up Izzwalkz and Ajani.  HGMP have aalso advised me of a couple of other very useful meetings I will be attending in April and July that could also influence future funding.

All in all, we are moving forward.  I just want to finalise SHP, and get one or two other programs up and running of our own too.  I also want to get  Finsbury Park walk going.  If we have three walks, and three programs running, hopefully people will sit up and listen to us.