Ursula Keyes Trust Supports Community Expansion at Kelsall Wellbeing Hub
The Ursula Keyes Trust is delighted to have supported the Kelsall Patient Participation Group (PPG) with funding for new storage facilities and signage at the Kelsall Wellbeing Hub – a growing community space helping local people live longer, healthier, and happier lives.
The Kelsall Wellbeing Hub is an inspiring grassroots initiative that opened its doors in March 2023 as an annexe to the village’s Medical Centre. Independently operated by the registered charity Kelsall PPG, the Hub was entirely funded by the community, which raised over £130,000 in just six months through local fundraising efforts, donations, and interest-free bonds from residents. It now serves as a vibrant centre for health and wellbeing activities, connecting people across Kelsall and surrounding rural villages including Tarvin, Ashton Hayes, Utkinton, Oakmere, and Delamere.
The Ursula Keyes Trust provided a grant towards the purchase of a 10ft x 15ft storage shed and the installation of professional signage, both of which are vital to supporting the continued development of the Hub. As demand for activities grows, additional storage is essential to house furniture and equipment used by different user groups. The new shed will ensure the Hub remains clutter-free and continues to offer a safe, welcoming, and accessible space for all. Meanwhile, new signage from GB Signs will raise the profile of the Hub, improving visibility for visitors and helping more local people discover the wide range of activities available.
Since opening, the Kelsall Wellbeing Hub has already made a significant impact. A wide-ranging weekly programme includes everything from brain yoga, knit-and-natter, and dementia-friendly art to mindfulness, mental health workshops, parenting sessions, and suicide bereavement support. Most offerings are free to attend and cater to all age groups, with particular focus on older adults and young families.
The Hub’s ethos is rooted in prevention and connection. It aims to reduce loneliness, improve mental health, promote independence, and foster friendships through regular engagement. A recent estimate by one of its trustees places the annual social value generated by the Hub at over £630,000, highlighting the significant return on community investment in both economic and wellbeing terms.
Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of 10 trustees – each with a professional background in healthcare, education, HR, business, or charity governance – provide strategic leadership. Their work is supported by around 50 volunteers, many of whom contribute weekly time to run the community café, host sessions, plan events, or support local fundraising. Sixth Form students have also contributed by producing promotional social media content, helping to reach younger audiences and future volunteers.
The Hub has also built strong links with local organisations, including the Alzheimer’s Society, Cheshire West & Chester Council, Healthbox CIC, Cheshire Police, and Hospice of the Good Shepherd. These partnerships enable the delivery of responsive, collaborative programming that meets local needs in a joined-up way.
While its model is sustainable and highly valued, the Hub’s long-term success depends on continued support. The grant from the Ursula Keyes Trust has helped the Hub expand its capacity without compromising the quality or accessibility of its services – a practical and important investment in a community-led project that is truly making a difference.
The Trust is proud to support a charity so deeply rooted in its community, and whose mission so clearly aligns with our values of promoting health, wellbeing, inclusion, and opportunity for all.
For more information about the Kelsall Wellbeing Hub and Kelsall PPG, please visit: https://kelsallppg.org.uk