Healthy Hearts
In partnership with Manchester Local Care Organisation (MLCO)
Manchester continues to face significant health inequalities, particularly among Black, African, Caribbean, and other racially minoritised communities.
According to Public Health England, people from these demographics are more likely to experience long-term health conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease — yet are less likely to access preventative care or participate in mainstream health and fitness initiatives.
Barriers such as cultural stigma, lack of representation, inaccessible services, and a shortage of culturally competent programmes contribute to poor engagement with traditional health and wellbeing provision.
These disparities have been further exacerbated by the cost-of-living crisis and the long-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Healthy Hearts Programme was created to respond to these challenges by delivering inclusive, community-rooted health and wellbeing activities that feel safe, relevant, and empowering.
What the programme does
Healthy Hearts is a holistic health and wellbeing programme that promotes physical, emotional, and social wellbeing through culturally grounded activities and peer-led support. Our delivery includes:
Afrofit
A community-led fitness programme rooted in music, movement, and culture. Sessions are accessible, inclusive, and designed to engage participants who may have never exercised before
Support Groups
Safe, non-judgmental spaces for participants to talk about physical and mental health, share lived experience, and build confidence in managing their wellbeing
Celebration Days
Events that combine health education with joy, food, and cultural pride — using creativity and connection to build trust and raise awareness
Cultural Foodbank
Distribution of healthy, culturally relevant food parcels, paired with education on nutrition, food preparation, and heart health
Social Action
Participants are supported to design and lead their own community health initiatives — from awareness campaigns to workshops — encouraging ownership and leadership.
The change we hope to see
Healthy Hearts is about more than exercise or diet — it’s about transforming how individuals and communities experience health, inclusion, and empowerment.
Through the programme, we aim to:
The programme directly supports the Wellbeing Support, Personal Growth, and Civic Responsibility pillars of our Holistic Development Model, contributing to a more connected, active, and health-literate community.
Each element of the programme is delivered in trusted community settings, led by facilitators who reflect the lived experiences of participants and use trauma-informed, culturally competent approaches to build trust and engagement.
Building Skills
Participants gain knowledge in nutrition, movement, and community health advocacy.
Personal Growth
Culturally relevant sessions build body confidence, emotional resilience, and self-expression.
Civic Responsibility
Participants take part in social action projects and help shape inclusive community health initiatives.
Social Mobility
Health education and peer leadership enhance long-term engagement and aspiration.
Wellbeing Support
Accessible, trauma-informed delivery prioritises physical and emotional wellbeing.