Befriending & Wellbeing
Community-based support to reduce isolation, respond to practical needs and improve wellbeing through peer connection, home-based support and referrals.
The National Lottery Heritage Fund supports our “Sickle Cell Stories” project. This initiative collects and shares personal narratives from people living with Sickle Cell disease. Furthermore, we aim to connect generations by preserving these diverse experiences. Consequently, we can document how treatment and management have evolved over time.
Why This Project Matters
Sickle Cell disease is a common genetic blood disorder in the UK. However, it often lacks sufficient public attention. “Sickle Cell Stories” addresses this gap. Specifically, we provide a platform for those affected. As a result, their voices are heard and public awareness increases.
Our Goals
We use these oral histories to reach five key milestones:
Improve Support Services: We gain insights to tailor our support for the Sickle Cell community.
Inform NHS Practices: We provide the NHS with a firsthand understanding of the condition. In turn, this helps create better policies and treatments.
Create a Lasting Legacy: We preserve these stories in local archives. Thus, we offer inspiration and knowledge for future generations.
Produce a Short Documentary: We are creating a film to highlight key moments from the collected stories.
Publish a Book: We will publish “Sickle Cell Stories: Then and Now.” This book features participant profiles and story highlights.
Share Your Story
Do you have experience with Sickle Cell disease? We encourage you to contribute your story. By doing so, you help reshape public understanding. Your perspective is vital, whether you are newly diagnosed or have lived with the condition for years.
To begin, please register by completing our consent form. We ensure every story is ethically documented and preserved for the future.
Across our community
More of our work
Practical support, trusted conversations and community partnerships sit alongside our oral history project.
Health Protection Outreach
Trusted community conversations about vaccination, prevention and access to services, including engagement with underserved communities in Coventry.
Blood Donation Awareness
Working with NHS Blood and Transplant to increase understanding of blood donation and encourage donor participation in underrepresented communities.