An innovative six-week wellbeing programme in Keighley has brought together women from different cultural backgrounds to focus on their emotional, mental and physical health.
The ‘Soul Sisters’ initiative, delivered by Manningham Housing Association, saw 12 residents meet regularly at Keighley Civic Centre and Keighley Central Hall for themed sessions designed to create a safe and supportive space.
The group included women from Pakistani, Bangladeshi and White British communities, with organisers aiming to tackle isolation and improve wellbeing through creativity, relaxation and gentle activity.
Led by Community Development Officer Eyarun Nessa and Cath Bacon, Chair of the association’s Customer Panel, the programme blended practical workshops with reflective sessions.
Activities ranged from candle making and guided meditation to a sound bath experience, one-to-one massage therapy and inclusive dance sessions with seated options. Organisers said several participants reported improved sleep, reduced stress and renewed confidence.
Creativity formed a central part of the project. In one session, framed silk paintings previously displayed during Bradford’s 2025 cultural celebrations were returned to participants, offering what organisers described as a powerful sense of recognition and pride. For one woman, it marked her first engagement with art since experiencing bereavement.
Mandala colouring and guided self-reflection sessions encouraged participants to explore themes of self-worth and resilience, while the final gathering brought the group together for a shared meal celebrating different cultures. The Olio app was also introduced as a practical tool to support food sharing and reduce reliance on foodbanks.
Eyarun Nessa said the idea behind the project was rooted in connection and belonging.
“Many of the women who joined us are often overlooked by mainstream services,” she said. “This programme gave them the opportunity to feel safe, seen and supported. The response has shown there is a real demand for this kind of initiative.”
Cath Bacon described the atmosphere as both “joyful and emotional”, adding that the sense of shared achievement over the six weeks was clear.
Shazia Khan, an MHA Board member who attended a showcase event at Airedale Shopping Centre, said the initiative had generated “a genuinely positive feeling” and predicted long-term benefits for those involved.
Organisers are now exploring how similar projects could be delivered in future, as calls grow for more community-led wellbeing support across the district.
