January's Foundry Chronic Pain Groups

Happy new year! Are you looking for support with chronic, persistent or long-term pain, or do you know someone who would benefit? We run weekly groups in Burngreave, Firvale, and Firth Park. Anyone living with chronic pain that would like to learn how to better manage in their day-to-day life as well as socialise and exercise are welcome to join any of our groups.

No need to contact us, just turn up!

“I’ve learned how to manage my pain better and be more kinder to myself. The support in the group made a real difference to me.”

Tuesdays

• 1pm – 2pm every Tuesday at Firvale Community Hub

• We started off the new year thinking about and setting goals for the new year in regards to our chronic pain, such as new techniques and coping strategies we would like to try, and new habits we might like to form this year. We have also discussed the importance of nutrition, balanced diets, and portion sizes.

• We also had a visit from Clair, NHS nurse, who spoke to us about Diabetes: learning the warning signs, as well as tips for managing your Diabetes well.

Wednesdays

• 1pm – 2pm every Wednesday at Firth Park Hub, behind Firth Park Methodist Church

• Our newest group at Firth Park has continued to go well, with regular attendees, and delivery from a few members of SOAR staff, including Wellbeing Coaches and Peer Support Workers.

• Marisa from Sheffield Mind came to visit us, and spoke about the 5 ways to wellbeing, low mood, and looking after our mental health.

Thursdays

• 11am – 12:30pm every week at Burngreave Vestry Hall

• Our Thursday women's group has had sessions with the Singing for Lung Health team, showing us the benefits of deep breathing and singing for our health and pain; as well as Lucy from The Wildlife Trust, who got us thinking about our local green spaces (of which Sheffield has many! There are 10 just in walking distance of Burngreave!) and getting those spring bulbs in the ground to help us anticipate lighter and warmer days, and get us through the darker months.

• Mir from the NHS led a session on making friendship bracelets. Having chronic pain can be isolating, and our arts and crafts activities at Vestry Hall help build a strong community.

At every group we have also been doing gentle chair-based exercises to keep our bodies moving, supporting our wellbeing and chronic pain. We always encourage everyone to take part in the activities, as being involved helps build confidence and a sense of achievement, as well as reducing pain sensitivity over time, improving joint and muscle support, and boosting mood. A big thanks to ACT for delivering these exercises for us!

No need to book, just turn up!