Inclusive sauna sessions

Groundswell's Community Connector in Lewisham, Sokhara Goodall, has been bringing together local organisations and businesses to create welcoming spaces where people can connect, unwind and support one another.

Working alongside Hackney Wick Community Sauna Baths, Dusty Knuckle, CnD Drinks and Moonji, Sokhara helped develop dedicated sauna sessions for people of colour. The sessions were created to offer a space where people could focus on their wellbeing while meeting others with shared experiences in an environment that felt safe, inclusive and welcoming.

The response from the community was overwhelmingly positive. The sessions sold out quickly and welcomed more than 100 attendees, showing both the demand for culturally inclusive wellbeing spaces and the value of strong local partnerships.

One participant said: "The people of colour sauna sessions are perfect. I'm so grateful for a space where I can find that cultural safety and connection with other people."

By connecting community organisations, local businesses and residents, Groundswell is helping create opportunities for people to build relationships, improve their wellbeing and strengthen community connections across Lewisham.