Causeway Rural & Urban Network (CRUN) and Henderson’s Pharmacy

CRUN has been in existence for 25 years. Currently CRUN supports over 200 community groups. In 2019 CRUN joined the Healthy Living Centre Alliance a network of 31 community organisations who value community development and assets-based approach to wellbeing and health. Through such programmes as HELP Social Prescribing, they empower people to take more control over their personal health, promoting an ethos of peer-led self-management for people with long-term conditions.

At CRUN, we believe that the heart of a resilient community lies in connection—people supporting one another, sharing experiences, and feeling empowered to access local support. Our recent BCPP project with a group of 11 individuals from our target area is a shining example of how grassroots engagement can strengthen community ties and individual wellbeing.

This project focused on building resilience through informal, peer-led sessions where participants felt comfortable sharing their stories, challenges, and triumphs. From the outset, it was clear that simply bringing people together to talk was powerful.

The relaxed format encouraged genuine conversations, helping participants feel seen, heard, and supported. These discussions soon sparked a wider desire—not just to improve their own lives—but to help others in their community do the same.

Each session offered practical techniques and accessible information, which were warmly received. Participants reported being able to make small, meaningful changes in their daily routines, improving their mental and physical wellbeing. The content was designed to be manageable and realistic, making it easier for individuals to apply what they learned in everyday life.

A standout feature of the programme was the wealth of knowledge-sharing that took place. Participants regularly exchanged tips, resources, and signposted each other to additional local support services. This organic exchange of information created a sense of empowerment and mutual care that extended well beyond the walls of the session room.

One of the most notable impacts was the strengthening of relationships between CRUN, local pharmacies, and participants. Through the sessions, a better understanding of the pharmacist’s role emerged. Many who were initially unsure or hesitant now feel confident approaching their local pharmacist, recognising them as a valuable and approachable source of support. This increased trust highlights the potential of strong community-pharmacy partnerships to bolster wider health interventions.

The value of this project went far beyond individual benefits. A lasting bond formed within the group, with many members continuing to stay in touch and engage in other community-based initiatives together. These new friendships became a support network in their own right, encouraging ongoing participation and a sense of shared purpose.

Collaboration with external organisations added an exciting and enriching layer to the experience. Two sessions were delivered in partnership with the National Trust, whose ideas for connecting with nature and heritage inspired participants to organise group outings—something many hadn’t considered before. These outings are now being planned, helping to further strengthen the social ties that were formed.

Our work with the Causeway Volunteer Centre was equally impactful. Some participants had previous volunteering experience and, supported by the group and CRUN, are now exploring opportunities to return to volunteering. This renewed sense of purpose is another encouraging outcome of the group’s collective journey.

We also introduced fun and inclusive activities to help break the ice and build group rapport. Quizzes were used early in the programme to encourage participation and conversation. In the final session, we brought the quizzes back—this time as a lively recap of everything the group had learned. It was a joyful and competitive moment that celebrated how far everyone had come, reinforcing both their individual knowledge and their shared experience.

These community partnerships are an invaluable way to ensure that the role of community pharmacies are reinforced as an integrated health care pathway, sitting alongside other statutory, community and voluntary supports.

Evan Reid /Community Pharmacist

This project is a perfect fit for CRUN in delivering community centred wellbeing initiatives that are both accessible and educational to meet the current needs of our local communities.

Lorna O’Neill / Causeway Rural & Urban Network (CRUN)

This initiative was more than a series of sessions—it was a catalyst for connection, confidence, and community spirit. Participants didn’t just attend; they engaged, contributed, and grew. The supportive atmosphere allowed them to explore new roles, reconnect with old passions, and build meaningful relationships.

The success of this project affirms CRUN’s belief in the power of local partnership and community-based approaches to health and wellbeing. By bringing together individuals, organisations, and services in a meaningful way, we’re not only addressing immediate needs—we’re laying the foundation for long-term resilience and community cohesion.