'A Better U' is a modular training programme designed to promote and support a healthy lifestyle as a preventive approach to common public health topics. It empowers professionals and volunteers who work in South Tyneside, by enhancing their knowledge and skills to effectively deliver brief interventions and support behavior change.

Many of the modules adopt Make Every Contact Count (MECC) for their conversational framework. MECC is a simple, practical approach to improving health and well-being. It encourages us to use everyday interactions, no matter how brief, as opportunities to support positive lifestyle changes. MECC equips you with the skills and confidence to:

• Ask: Spot opportunities to talk about health and well-being.
• Assist: Share simple, practical tips tailored to their needs.
• Act: Support people take the first step toward healthier choices, like eating better, moving more, quitting smoking, or seeking support for mental health.

MECC isn’t about being an expert, it’s about listening, showing empathy, and making every interaction count.

During 2024 we celebrated:

• A new website, that allows learners to create an account. This makes booking and accessing post-learning materials and certificates easier.
• The launch of our e-learning modules. Modules such as Cancer and Healthy Homes were launched in the Autumn, with Carers, Oral Health, Loneliness and An Intoduction to Public Health coming in the new year.
• The development of a MECC Conversational Skills module. To increase the skills and confidence to have a conversation about public health topics.
• The inclusion of MECC Mental Health.
• The roll-out of a Young Persons module.

789 people attended 72 sessions in 2024. 98% rated our training good to excellent and 93% had high or very high confidence to implement their new knowledge and skills.

Participants told us they appreciate our trainer's delivery: their energy, engagement, and knowledge. Interactive activities and group discussions were well-received: making the training fun and easy to follow. Content is informative and relevant: particularly topics such as mental health, supporting people, and conversation skills. The training is clear, simple, and directly applicable to their roles. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly trainers create a comfortable environment, and the practical insights are valued. Overall, participants were very satisfied and felt they gained valuable, applicable knowledge.