Co-op Member Pioneer Brighton

30/05/2024

🌟 Exciting News for Our Community! 🌟

I'm thrilled to announce that the Local Community Fund will be open for applications from 10 June! 🎉

Based on valuable feedback from our member-owners, we are eager to support projects in Co-op members’ communities that aim to create Sustainable Futures for both the Planet and People. 🌍❤️

Planet:
We are looking for projects that help to protect the planet by:
🌱 Tackling climate change
♻️ Reducing waste and resource use
🌳 Protecting nature

People:
We are looking for projects that enable people to play a part in their community’s future by:
👩‍🎓 Helping young people fulfil their potential
👵 Helping older people stay connected
😊 Supporting mental wellbeing

Please message me and I can send you a link to register your interest.

15/05/2024

🌟 Movement and Mental Health 🌟

We often hear how important physical exercise is for our mental and physical wellbeing. But what does that really mean, and how can we make it part of our daily lives? Let's explore the benefits of movement, how to overcome barriers, and some practical tips to get active every day.

⚠️ Trigger Warning: This post mentions anxiety, depression, eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, and self-harm.

Why Movement Matters

Movement isn't just about intense workouts. It's any activity that gets you moving, like walking, cleaning, or dancing. Every bit of movement counts!

Mental Health Benefits

Exercise releases endorphins that boost our mood. It also helps manage stress, improve sleep, boost self-esteem, reduce anxiety, and even slow cognitive decline. Plus, it can be a great way to meet new people.

Common Barriers and Solutions

We all face obstacles like low energy, lack of confidence, or time constraints. Recognizing these barriers is the first step to finding what works for you.

How Much to Move?
Adults should aim for:

150 minutes of moderate activity weekly (e.g., brisk walking)
Or 75 minutes of vigorous activity (e.g., running)
Or a mix of both
But remember, any movement is better than none!

Easy Ways to Get Moving

Walk or cycle instead of driving
Stretch in the morning
Join a dance class or gardening club
Take the stairs
Try yoga or Pilates
Incorporate Movement into Daily Life

At work: Walk or cycle to work, take active breaks, use a stand-up desk

At school: Walk or cycle, join clubs, stay active during breaks

At home: Do chores to music, walk pets, exercise during TV ads
Top Tips to Get Active

Just start moving
Set achievable goals
Hold yourself accountable
Find what you enjoy
Be consistent

Special Considerations

For those with eating disorders or on medication, it’s important to follow professional advice to avoid triggering negative behaviors or side effects.

Join Us This May!

This Mental Health Awareness Week (13th-19th May), let's focus on "moving for our mental health." Find ways to move your body and mind every day. 🌼

Let's get moving, Coop community! 💙

30/04/2024

🌾🐄 Exciting News from Co-op! 🚜🥚

At Co-op, we're proud to support British farming! Did you know that 100% of our milk, cream, Cheddar cheese, eggs, fresh and frozen meat (including when used as an ingredient) are British? Plus, we recently launched a dedicated ‘Best of British’ section online, showcasing the finest produce from our local farms!

🌳 Mark your calendars for Sunday 9th June, as Co-op is proud to sponsor Open Farm Sunday! 🌾 This year's theme is ‘farming with nature', and farms across the country will be opening their doors to welcome visitors. It's a fantastic opportunity to discover more about food, farming, and the beautiful countryside that surrounds us.

From machinery displays to nature walks, each event promises something unique and memorable. So, why not plan a visit to your local farm? 🐑🚜

📅 Save the date and spread the word! Share this post with your network and encourage them to join in the fun. 🌟 Simply visit Visit A Farm - Open Farm Sunday to find a local farm near you!

Let's celebrate the wonders of British farming together! 🌾🇬🇧

https://farmsunday.org/visit-a-farm

*Subject to availability.

Vis­it a farm on Open Farm Sun­day, 9th June 2024 and find out about the sto­ry behind our food and how farm­ing affects our every­day lives. Each Open Farm Sun­day event is unique. Activ­i­ties range from machin­ery dis­plays, trac­tor and trail­er rides, through to demon­stra­tions,...

05/04/2024

📣 Get Involved in our Co-op AGM & Elections Season! 🎉

With just two weeks to go until our Co-op AGM & Elections season kicks off, we want to hear from you! Your voice matters, and we're eager to know what topics are most important to you.

Join in by participating in our survey, where you can share your thoughts and help shape the content of our upcoming AGM. Plus, by taking part, you'll be entered for a chance to win £50 on your Co-op Membership Card! 🤑

👉 Take the survey now: Survey Link https://joinin.coop.co.uk/opportunities/645

But that's not all! We've compiled a handy document with useful links and key dates related to the AGM. Whether you're a Co-op member or simply interested in learning more, this resource will be invaluable over the coming months.

Co-op Members get exclusive offers, events and opportunities. Become a member or sign in to join us.

22/02/2024

🌟 Food Waste Action Week – 18th to 24th March! 🌟

Hey Co-op community,

Let's make a meaningful impact together during Food Waste Action Week next month.

Did you know that simply choosing what you'll use can make a huge difference? Whether it's jotting down a shopping list, peeking into your fridge and cupboards, or picking ingredients that can be used in multiple meals, every small action counts. Not only does it save you money, but it also helps in reducing food waste and conserving valuable resources.

Let's rally behind this year's theme – 'Choose What You'll Use' and spread the word!

Keep an eye out for exciting content on our Social Hub, and let's inspire each other to make our food go further!

These small changes work towards greener future!

01/02/2024

It's Time to Talk Day, (Thursday, February 1, 2024) an opportunity for us all to embrace openness about mental health and share our true feelings. On this Day, I'm addressing mental health, driven by the fact that su***de stands as the leading cause of death in men under 50—a matter close to my heart.

Men often find it challenging to open up; according to Samaritans, they struggle to discuss issues like relationship breakdowns, separation from children, job loss, addiction, lack of close friendships, and loneliness. The impact is stark, with 1 in 5 individuals admitting to experiencing suicidal thoughts, as per an NHS digital survey. Alarmingly, 3/4 of su***des in the UK involve men.

Research suggests that interrupting thoughts of su***de is possible, and people can develop strategies to manage such intrusions. Contrary to a common misconception, asking about suicidal thoughts can reduce the risk, as individuals typically feel more supported when sharing their feelings—taking a crucial step toward creating coping mechanisms.

Here are some helpful tips to initiate a conversation:
Validate the person's feelings, assure them that help is available, and emphasize that they are not alone.
Avoid judgment, refrain from displaying signs of shock or fear, and resist arguing against their emotions.
Additionally, don't promise to keep suicidal thoughts confidential; instead, empower yourself to contact services like Samaritans or 999 if necessary, ideally doing so together.

Whether it's a simple note, a spontaneous video call, or a casual chat over a meal—find your way to start a genuine conversation this Day.

28/09/2023

My goal is to connect local causes in the community and coop together. From food banks that need food and stores that need food banks to events we can help support.