February / March 2026

Braunstone Alert February / March 2026

The b inspired Neighbourhood Support Team in their new branded uniforms!

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Read the Alert online...

Updates from the Neighbourhood Support Team...

One year of OCTA, supporting Braunstone residents Throughout 2025, b inspired’s ‘One Call, That’s All’ (OCTA) project has been supporting Braunstone residents. OCTA has enabled the Neighbourhood Support Team (NST) to offer a holistic approach, providing residents with access to support with food, benefits, debt advice, employability, and wellbeing support, all through a single point of access.

The project is delivered by dedicated Neighbourhood Support Workers, Sally and Terry, who work closely with individuals and families to help them overcome challenges.

Over the past year, they are proud to have supported residents affected by food and fuel poverty. In recent months, demand for help has continued to rise, with Energywise (utility advice) appointments now regularly full.

OCTA builds on b inspired’s long-standing work in Braunstone and enables the team to work alongside other agencies, to support people with multiple issues through a single point of contact. Having dedicated Support Workers has helped us assist residents in a more timely manner and created a single welcoming access point for services.

In December, Sally and Terry attended the Utilita Giving ‘One Call, That’s All: One Year On Conference’, where they connected with other charities (from Leicester and Luton) involved in the project and shared ideas for working together. They also enjoyed meeting Utilita Giving patron, David James.

As the project continues into 2026, Sally and Terry are looking forward to helping more families in their journey out of food and fuel poverty. Sally also hopes to complete her Level 3 Information, Advice & Guidance qualification, following the successful completion of her Level 2 last year.

0116 279 5020 support@b-inspired.org.uk Neighbourhood Support Base, Gallards Hill, LE3 1QR www.b-inspired.org.uk @BInspiredLeicester

@binspiredleics

NST Gallery...

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Santa reads the Braunstone Alert!

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Meeting Davi d James

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Photos from the co

Quick reminder - Our Neighbourhood Support Base opening hours have now changed to: Mon-Thurs, 9am-5pm.

We are now closed to the public on Fridays.

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Jumper Day!

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Wellbeing Updates...

An update on b inspired’s wellbeing programme...

Men, Mates & Masala was a great success!

Over the past few months, b inspired’s wellbeing programme has been going really positively! We’ve seen an increase in engagement, deeper conversations, and stronger trust built between residents and the wellbeing team. People are showing up more consistently, opening up more honestly, and crucially, reporting that they feel lighter, calmer, and more supported. Several residents have shared that the support feels like ‘a weight being lifted’, which is exactly the space we aim to create.

Men, Mates & Masala was a brilliant success.

The curry night created a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, with food providing a natural ice-breaker that helped people feel at ease. The guest speakers shared their experiences openly and honestly; encouraging meaningful conversation, reflection, and connection amongst attendees. The balance of listening, sharing, and socialising helped create a supportive space, where men felt comfortable engaging in their own way.

Some of the highlights have been: Seeing residents recognise their own strength again. Feedback has shown that people feel heard, believed in, and supported without judgement.

The wellbeing sessions have helped individuals regain confidence, set boundaries, and feel hopeful about next steps.

The growth of our social groups, which are becoming genuine support networks rather than just activities.

The Wellbeing & Self-development sessions...

The Wellbeing & Self-development sessions, delivered as part of our wellbeing programme, have provided residents with consistent emotional support, practical coping tools, and reassurance during challenging periods of their lives. Participants have said that the sessions help them feel grounded, supported, and less alone. They also support people to reflect on their progress and recognise their own resilience.

Participants have shared that: They feel stronger and more confident.

They appreciate being listened to without judgement.

The support helps them keep going when things feel difficult.

They feel genuinely cared for.

Several residents specifically said the sessions help them believe in themselves again.

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Some of the things that made the event such a great success: A warm, informal curry night setting Guest speakers who were relatable and open Shared food bringing people together naturally No pressure to speak, but space to listen and reflect Strong peer connection and mutual support Many attendees stayed longer than planned to continue conversations, which was a clear sign that the event felt safe, valuable, and engaging.

The latest about the social groups...

Our wellbeing offer brings together social connection, emotional support, and gentle wellbeing activities - whether you like groups, one-to-one chats, or staying in your slippers at home.

We offer three social groups: Talk Time: Tues, 10am-12pm, Sandyhurst, Hockley Farm Rd A regular cuppa and a proper chat Brew & Banter: Mon, 10am-12pm, Blessed Sacrament Church Hall, Gooding Ave Food, fun & feeling better (without trying too hard) Men’s Den: Weds, 10am-12pm, The Grove Community Hub, Cort Crescent Low pressure. High banter. No awkward circle sharing.

Over the last couple of months, these groups have been going from strength to strength. The Men’s Den continues to be a safe, relaxed space, where men feel comfortable talking openly (sometimes after pretending they’re ‘just there for the tea’). Brew & Banter has become a consistent highlight of the week for many, offering connection, laughter, and routine. Talk Time continues, for some older residents, to be their only chance to be around other people all week.

Some of the activities people have enjoyed over all three groups recently have been: Open conversations and peer support Creative activities Games & quizzes Just having space to talk without pressure An opportunity to feel that little bit less lonely Often one of the most valued ‘activities’ is simply being able to sit with others who understand.

Vee’s wellbeing tip...

It’s completely normal to feel unsure. Winter already makes everything feel heavier, and stepping into something new can feel like a lot. But you don’t need to come feeling confident, chatty, or ‘on form’. Just turning up is enough.

From a brain point of view, the part of the brain that worries about new situations is trying to keep you safe - not stop you. Once you’re in a warm, welcoming space, your nervous system usually settles, making it easier to relax and feel part of things.

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Dance & Health with Moving Together and b inspired...!

What is Dance & Health?

The Dance & Health programme for adults in Braunstone brings people together through movement, music, and conversation. Each session features a lively one-hour dance class, exploring a range of styles to increase physical fitness and mobility, followed by a 30minute social space to connect, share, and talk about health and wellbeing. The sessions take place every Tues, 10-11.30am at The Grove Community Hub. Join us for a free trial and then £4 pay as you go thereafter, including hot drink and biscuits!

Julie...long-standing member ties, The Tues morning classes are for all abili y the enjo ly real I . you can go at your own pace us s give n dow dance-based routines. The cool hers Teac great stretches and improves balance. are lovely, friendly, understanding and motivating! The classes have improved my stamina and also mental wellbeing, as they just challenge my memory, coordination and make me smile!

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Jean...new mem

I was really ined the class and jo ly nt ce re ve ha I munity, like a bit of a com s el fe It . ed m co winwel se as well so it’s a ci er ex e th y jo ! en and I od value for money go ry ve y nl ai rt ce win, and

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at for my fitness.

I like coming because it’s gre Everybody is I love the community element.

I also like the and very friendly and welcoming, us to consider our talks at the end, which allow s. health across our everyday live

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Food Hub Updates...

A thank you to some of our donors!

B inspired would like to say a massive thank you to the many organisations that donated to us over the Christmas period! These included...

Friends of Braunstone Foodshare Anstey & District Funeral Directors Business Box (especially Anthony from Kinetic ITBS) Fullhurst Community College SIG Insulation & Dry Lining East Midlands Railway Sonoco BHW Conveyancing Kingsway Surgery Braunstone Community Primary School

Some Photos of our Christmas donations...

s Funeral Director Anstey & District

East Midlands Ra ilway

and many other companies and individuals who donated to us.

These donations helped us to put smiles on faces in Braunstone over the festive period!

We’d also like to thank some of our regular donators, including: the community in Kirby Muxloe St Bartholomew’s Church, Kirby Muxloe St Andrews Church, Leicester Forest East Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church & St Peters Church, Hinckley Road

g a hamper to Leon deliverin Arlo

Foodshare mem receiving their ber hamper

It is thanks to these donations that we are able to sustain our Foodshare throughout the year.

of...

We are currently in need Coffee Sugar Squash Cereal

Tinned veg (carrots, peas) Tinned meats Red / brown sauce, mayo Salad cream, vinegar Biscuits

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Items can be brought to: se, Neighbourhood Support Ba Gallards Hill, LE3 1QR

to Please call us in advance f your arrange a time to drop of donations...

0116 279 5020 support@b-inspired.org.uk

Support for everyone, when you need it most...

Braunstone Foodshare is here for you!

Braunstone Foodshare is a Food Hub based at b inspired’s Neighbourhood Support Base on Gallards Hill, supporting residents of LE3 1 who are experiencing food poverty.

People come to the Food Hub for many reasons.

Rising living costs, changes in work hours, illness, or unexpected bills can all place sudden pressure on household finances. Many of our members are in work, and we recognise that needing extra support at times is a normal part of life.

Running Braunstone Foodshare is a complex service that relies heavily on the generosity of others. We depend on food and cash donations from local businesses, schools, churches, supermarkets, and members of the public. Cash donations are used to buy essential items such as eggs, cooking oil, and hygiene products that are not always available through food donations.

We also access surplus food through Fareshare and the Foodiverse app. However, availability varies daily, and we can only distribute what we receive. A small membership contribution helps towards the ongoing cost of purchasing food and hygiene essentials and supports the continued running of the Food Hub.

Getting additional support...

rstand When someone joins, we take time to unde to make g gglin their situation and if someone is stru ends meet, we can: need Talk through any extra support they may bills) d ehol (e.g. help with debt, benefits, or hous can Agree a membership contribution that they comfortably afford Support is offered in a respectful and non‑judgemental way.

d that asking for help Our approach: We understan offer practical help in isn’t always easy. We aim to where everyone is a friendly, welcoming space nity. treated with respect and dig

Foodshare access

with All members receive a fresh food bag fruit and vegetables also Depending on availability, members may d foo receive chilled and frozen m the Members can select additional items fro pantry: agreed The number of items depends on their membership level ‑up Membership levels are set during the sign appointment

What members can expect during their visit...

1. Welcome: A friendly team member will greet the foodshare member, when they arrive at the Neighbourhood Support Base (NSB).

2. Payment: Payment can be made at reception. Members can also choose to buy eggs and/or oil for a small extra cost.

3. Pantry Access: Members receive a basket and are shown into the pantry. We’ll explain their level and what food they can choose.

4. Bread & Extras: May be available, depending on stock.

5. Chiller & freezer items: Members are offered items from the chiller and freezer.

Level 3 & 4 members also receive: Extra meat from the back freezer Cheese and milk from the back chiller Butter (fortnightly) 6. Food Selection: Food is provided based on family size and whether members prefer cooking ingredients or ready meals.

7. Fresh Produce: Fresh fruit and any additional items are on the table at reception.

8. Hygiene Products: Members can choose 1-3 hygiene items, depending on their level.

9. Pack the Food: Members have time to pack everything into bags.

10.Before members leave: We’ll ask if they’d like to book the same day and time for their next visit.

can vary weekly.

Stock depends on donations and requests, item While we try to accommodate d. availability cannot be guarantee

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Shining a spotlight on some of our wonderful volunteers!

Luke...Braunstone Alert Volunteer Delivery Person “I started volunteering with b inspired in September after one of the Neighbourhood Support Team asked if I’d be interested in delivering the Braunstone Alert. At first, I was nervous, as I sometimes struggle in social situations, but volunteering has helped me grow in confidence. I’ve made new friends and developed my social skills, especially talking with new people, which I wouldn’t have felt able to do before.

I love being able to put a smile on peoples faces. It keeps me physically active and also helps improve my mental health!”

ne Monica...Braunstone Alert & telepho befriending volunteer “I've been a volunteer at b inspired for y almost two years now. I thoroughly enjo making a change in the community, whether it's simply spreading the word about the support the Neighbourhood or Support Team offer by delivering Alerts, having fortnightly phone catch-ups with service users (aged 50+), as part of telephone befriending. Volunteering also helps me to improve my own general my wellbeing and has a positive impact on day-to-day work life.”

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Volunteer Simon...Braunstone Alert Delivery Person I was in a dark “b inspired helped me when to pay that place, so it’s nice to be able back. way of Delivering the Alert is a good exploring parts increasing my weekly steps, and helping of Braunstone I don’t know pired to the spread the word about b ins local community.”

Volunteer Steve...Foodshare tone resident and “I’m Steve, a Brauns b inspired. I help out recent volunteer with rking through a list of as the ‘handyman’, wo , it’s great to get out odd jobs. Being retired tive, and give of the house, stay ac e community. something back to th iative, which makes Everyone is so apprec warding.” volunteering really re

e Volunteer Leila...Foodshar and I am currently ila Le is e m na y “M at college. I have studying full time is time chose to spend th I so f, of s ay sd Thur arity, b inspired, ch l ca lo y m at ng volunteeri .I t the food pantry or pp su lp he I re whe unity back to the comm es really enjoy giving e difference it mak tiv si po e th ng ei and se part of , as well as being ed ne in le op pe to team.” g and supportive such a welcomin

What’s Happening at The Grove Community Hub? Over the Christmas period, we successfully delivered our Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) scheme, which included a special visit to Santa’s grotto. The scheme was extremely well received, with children thoroughly enjoying the activities on offer. Alongside the sessions, we supported local families by providing food parcels filled with essential items, festive treats, and toys, ensuring everyone who attended felt supported during the festive period.

Our Christmas Fair was another highlight, bringing the community together and creating a fantastic festive atmosphere. We loved seeing so many people take part and look forward to hosting more community events throughout the year.

We’ve also been busy making improvements at The Grove, including exciting plans for a new on‑site cafe, coming soon. Keep an eye out for updates by following us on social media.

Braunstone Job’s Fair...

The next Braunstone Job’s Fair is due to take place at The Grove Community Hub. The event is organised by the Department for Work & Pensions and is the perfect opportunity for anyone seeking employment to see what opportunities are available.

When: Weds 25 Mar, 10am-1pm Where: The Grove Community Hub, Cort Crescent, LE3 1QZ Join them for a day of networking, job opportunities in a variety of sectors and career growth, as job seekers are given the opportunity to connect with local employers in the area.

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COMMUNITY CAFE OPENING SOON

New cafe coming soon to The Grove Community Hub... @TheGroveCommunityHub

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@TheGroveCommunityHub

@The Grove Community Hub

Local updates...

Honouring History Through Art: Alan Rosak’s WW2 Statues

An update from Braunstone History Group...

Braunstone resident Alan Rosak has long had a passion for commemorating history through creativity. Several years ago, he marked the 70th anniversary of D-Day by creating two striking statues of World War 2 soldiers, crafted entirely from recycled materials. These unique pieces not only pay tribute to the bravery of those who served, but also showcase the power of art to preserve memory in a sustainable way.

Now, Alan is turning his attention to a deeply personal project: a statue of his father, Zygmunt Alexander Rosak, a Polish soldier who served in Italy during the Second World War and lived on Hand Avenue (Braunstone). Like his earlier works, this statue will be constructed from recycled materials, reflecting Alan’s commitment to creativity with purpose.

All of Alan’s statues have been proudly displayed at the Stable Block Museum, run by the Braunstone History Group, where visitors can appreciate both their artistic detail and historical significance.

For Alan, these creations are about more than remembrance - they are an inspiration. By transforming recycled materials into meaningful art, he hopes to encourage others in the community to explore their own creativity and, perhaps, to make their own contributions to celebrating history and imagination.

In a world where history can sometimes feel distant, Alan Rosak’s work reminds us that memory, artistry, and sustainability can come together in ways that touch hearts and spark ideas.

We held an event on 7 Dec at the Civic Centre, with a few guest displays. It was a great success with over 100 lovely people attending and a lot stayed for over an hour. Following on from that, the group had a lovely Christmas party at Pat Bates house with food, quizzes and lots of laughter.

The group now have several new members, which is fantastic! If anyone is interested in joining a very friendly group, just turn up at the Stable Block Museum (next door to Winstanley House Hotel), any Tues, 10am-12pm.

We have not yet finalised our programme of events for 2026, but activities will include: Ladies Walking Group in Feb, with some talks in Mar / Apr and the 82nd Airborne Event in the Walled Garden on 16 Aug (this year will be bigger and better than last year). There will also be a Heritage Open Day in Dec. Our Facebook page is very popular with nearly 5,300 members. Please take a look as you will find it amazing and it brings back so many lovely memories for people.

Friends of Highway Spinney: Litter Pick Dates for 2026...

2 & 16 Feb

2, 16 & 30 Mar

13 & 27 Apr

11 May

1, 15 & 29 June 13 & 27 July 10 & 24 Aug

Braunstone Children’s Centre...

The Community Allotment is a space for growing people and food!

In Feb, the Community Allotment are meeting inside at St. Anne’s Church Hall, Letchworth Rd. Come along and help us to plan and prepare for the season ahead, enjoy good company and garden & nature-based activities.

Thurs, 1-3pm & Sun, 2-4pm Free refreshments served both days.

We’ll be back on the plot at Rancliffe Allotments in Mar 2026! Everyone welcome.

For more information and before a first visit, contact Sharon: 07983674341 rev.sharon.pioneercurate@gmail.com

Baby Cafe - Leicester Mammas: Thurs, 12.30-2pm Stay & Play (1-4yrs): Fri, 9.30-11am Babies Learning Together (0-12 months): Fri, 1-2.30pm For more info, contact: 0116 454 3890

St Peters Church...

Breakfast Cafe: Sat 7 Feb, 9.30am-12pm Informal Reflective Service: Mon 23 Feb, 6pm

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Preloved@45 Community Shop & Cafe Since opening in Aug 2021, we’ve supported many causes (schools, food hubs, social services, other organisations). We can only do this with the support of our volunteers and your fabulous donations. We’re proud to be in the heart of the Braunstone community and the friendly volunteers will always offer help.

Our volunteers receive full training and this can be used to move into paid employment. We’re looking for more volunteers, if you have an hour or two to spare: 10am-4pm, Tues-Fri. We offer 1-2 week work experience to school/college students age 16+. Please contact us if you know of anyone who would benefit.

As a non-profit community shop, we give back by: Supporting community groups (crafts, other activities for adults and children) Donating to people sign-posted by social services Donating to food hubs Providing school uniforms for those in need Providing training to volunteers Our cafe is a more recent part of the shops offerings. We have delicious cakes, hot & cold cobs, full English breakfasts, paninis, jacket potatoes and more. You can order cakes, cheese straws, cheesecake, trifles etc., with a few days notice. Opening hours: 10 am-4pm, Tues-Fri. We can only keep the community shop open with the support of our volunteers. There are many different ways you can get involved, including; creating window displays, sorting donations, serving customers, cleaning or ironing, making cakes and food in the cafe, carrying out DIY, selling on vinted for us and more.

Please contact...

Marian.Prelovedat45@outlook.com 07908 169918

Activities at the BRITE Centre...

Knit & Knatter: Mon & Thurs, 1-3pm All ages. No knitting experience needed.

DWP advice (claims advice, CV’s): Tues, 1-3pm Homework support, Tues & Weds, 3.30-5.30pm Help & support with school work/projects, must be ages 6+ (parents to remain on site if young people under 8).

LCC Housing drop-in: Weds, 11am-3pm Housing enquiries / repairs. No appointment.

Warm Space: Weds, 10am-1pm Relax, get a hot drink, read, board games.

Toddler sessions: Weds, 10am-12pm New mums & toddlers, sessions free.

Leicester Music School Choir: Thurs, 4.15-5.45pm HG Braunstone Senior Art Group: Fri, 10am-12pm All welcome. No skills required.

One-off events...

Comedy Festival Joke Spot for young people Sat 14 Feb, 1-3.30pm Open mic, writing jokes & performing.

Doorsteps Museums Mon 16 & Tues 17 Feb, 11am-4pm A tree-themed, free event.

Zine Workshops: Thurs 19 Feb, 2-4pm Library Shelf Arts project, for the family.

International Women’s Day Sat 14 Mar, 11am-3pm - Gain to share Mothers Day Arts & Crafts: 14 Mar, 12-2.30pm

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Blessed Sacrament...

Lent starts in Mid Feb, beginning with Ash Weds on 18 Feb. It’s a six-week period of reflection, spiritual renewal and acts of goodwill in preparation for Easter.

Fri pop-in Blessed Sacrament Hall, 10-11.30am Enjoy a cup of tea and a chat while supporting local charities and CAFOD. Weds drop-in Blessed Sacrament Hall, 2-4pm Tea, cake and good company.

Special dates / activities include...

Fri 6 Feb, 1pm: Fish & Chip Lunch for Seniors 25 Feb: Talk by Berni & Pat on volunteering at Leicester Cathedral 11 Mar: Games afternoon (bingo, quiz, board games) 25 Mar: Lent reflection by Sister Gabrielle More details at: www.westleicestercatholic.org or on church noticeboards.

If you’d like to learn more about the Catholic faith, we also host monthly friendly discussion meetings. Email: ourcatholicfaith@proton.me

Hockley Farm Medical Centre: Supporting Health & Wellbeing in February Children’s Mental Health Week: 9-15 Feb This week highlights the emotional wellbeing of children and young people. The 2026 theme, ‘This is My Place’ celebrates belonging and support at home, school, and in the community.

Local support in Leicester:

Terry from b inspired’s Neighbourhood Support Team will be attending the Mental Health Cafe monthly on Tuesdays, starting 3 Feb...Why not say hello to her!

Healthy Together (0-19): Health visiting & school nursing for children's emotional wellbeing. families.leicester.gov.uk CAMHS: Specialist mental health services for children and adolescents across Leicester, Leicestershire & Rutland.

24/7 support: NHS 111 (option 2) for urgent mental health concerns.

If your child is struggling with anxiety, low mood, stress, or behaviour, speak to your GP or explore these resources.

World Cancer Day: 4 Feb - A global day to raise awareness, encourage early detection, and support those affected by cancer. Early diagnosis and treatment make a real difference, so contact your GP if you notice persistent symptoms.

Support is available from Macmillan Cancer Support: 0808 808 00 00 or visit their website for local resources. World Cancer Day reminds us all to take steps for prevention, early detection, and supporting loved ones.

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