Community Focus: Havering Asian and Welfare Association

Havering Asian and Welfare Association 

Havering Asian Social and Welfare Association (HASWA) is a generic and non faith based organisation. HASWA was founded in 1998 by Sansar Singh Narwal and secured a centre in ElmPark in 2001. The HASWA community centre caters for all sections of the local community with a specific emphasis on the isolated, disadvantaged and vulnerable Asian communities.

HASWA understands and acknowledges cultural diversity and provides social/welfare advice, activities for all ages, a range of reading literature, recreational and gym equipment and organise cultural events to strengthen community links and promotes integration. For the Asian community, especially the elderly, isolated by language and cultural barriers, HASWA is their socialising venue, where bilingual staff and volunteers help and support a variety of practical (access to benefits and health care) as well as emotional needs.

Yoga Classes - Monday and Wednesday 10 – 11:30am. A great way to keep fit and healthy, basic postures and breathing techniques to aid relaxation, improve strength, flexibility and balance.

Sahara Carers’ Group – Tuesday and Wednesday 1-3pm, gives an opportunity to carers to share their concerns, socialise and participate in various organised activities, get information and advice. HASWA liaises with Health and Social Services and other agencies on their behalf.

Lunch Club – Wednesday12 – 2pm, reaches out to the isolated elderly to socialise with others, take part in stimulating activities, have a meal and make new friends.

Basic IT – Thursday 11am – 1pm, computer classes for beginners.

Punjabi language class – Thursday 6-7:30pm during term time only at GCSE/AS/A levels.

HASWA Ability Club – Friday 1-3pm, a group for all ages to get together and enjoy sewing, cooking, singing, dancing, etc and have fun at the same time!!

Information Surgeries/Projects – Quarterly health checks for BP, Cholesterol and Sugar. Information surgeries for Alzheimer’s, Dementia, Cancer Awareness, Diabetes, Fire Safety, Carers’ events, Debt advice/help and many more.

Culture and other events – New Year, Vasaikhi, Diwali, Christmas, Teeyian, Recreational day trips.

Registered Charity No. 1104919

Company Limited by Guarantee No. 4394262

Chairperson: G.S. Kooner

Greenfields, Elm Park  RM12 5NB

Hon. Secretary: S. S. Narwal

Tel: 01708 522789 

Email: haswa@btconnect.com