KHL Story of Change

During 2025/26, we undertook significant work to better understand, evidence and articulate the impact of our services. As demand grows for community-based approaches that support prevention, wellbeing and self-management, it is increasingly important that we can clearly demonstrate not only what we do, but how and why change happens.

To support this, we commissioned an independent evaluator to undertake a series of in-depth listening sessions, case studies and analysis across our programmes. The result is our first Evidenced Story of Change, providing a robust framework for understanding the outcomes achieved by the people we support, the mechanisms that drive those outcomes, and the wider benefits created for families, communities and the health system.

The findings reinforce something we have long observed through our work: health is about more than medical treatment alone. Many people come to KHL experiencing a combination of physical health conditions, mental health challenges, social isolation, financial pressures or major life changes. Through compassionate, community-based support, people gain the confidence, connections and practical skills needed to improve their wellbeing and take greater control of their health.

Revised Story of Change after Annual Survey V2.0

Our research identified four consistent outcomes experienced across KHL programmes: Belonging, Wellbeing, Confidence, and Actively Managing Own Health. These outcomes help people move from isolation to connection, from coping to thriving, and from dependence towards greater self-management. Just as importantly, the impact extends beyond the individual. Stronger families, more connected communities, increased volunteering and reduced pressure on health services all emerge as ripple effects of this work.

This Story of Change represents an important milestone in KHL’s commitment to learning, improvement and accountability. It provides a stronger evidence base for our work, informs the development of our new evaluation framework, and helps us understand how we can strengthen our impact in the years ahead. Most importantly, it captures the voices and experiences of the people at the heart of everything we do, demonstrating how community support helps local people live well for longer, whatever life brings.

The 2026 annual survey tested our Story of Change against a larger and differently composed group. The four outcomes and their relative ordering were confirmed. Belonging appears to function as the enabler of the other three rather than as a parallel outcome, and the community ripple effects appear to depend on sustained engagement rather than arising in parallel.

If you are ready to make a change to your lifestyle, and improve your health and wellbeing, please contact our friendly team who will discuss how KHL can support you.

What are our values?

KHL put people first

People and the community make up the heart of KHL. We are open and accessible to all.

KHL are understanding

We care about those around us and can empathise.

KHL are flexible

We adapt to those around us to make an impact on people’s lives.

KHL work with others

We collaborate to create networks and broaden opportunities for all.

KHL think creatively

We innovate and progress with originality.

I have found the atmosphere at KHL has enriched my life, besides the enjoyment of the company at my art lessons, which I greatly enjoyed… I appreciate just what a difference KHL makes to many people who attend here.

KHL has been a help to me in the fact that I have met a new circle of friends and mixing with different people has helped my mental health and made me feel more open to change.

The classes are great for my physical and mental health, also for socialising. I look forward to it every week.

KHL provides multiple services that make it an integral part of assistance to the community of Keighley.

The opportunities and support offered by KHL is generally excellent. I have really benefitted from ballet be fit! The admin staff are warm welcoming and efficient. An absolute gem for Keighley.

I have had much better quality of life and it’s been life-saving. I attend positive vibes and conversation café.

An excellent group for friendship and living a happier and fulfilled life. Thank you KHL.

Coming to KHL has helped with my anxiety and greatly improved my social skills. The exercise classes have helped with my mobility and healthy eating/ cooking courses have helped me gain confidence in having a healthy lifestyle.

I love coming to KHL, it is so inviting and welcoming and I really feel I belong there. I can come in for a cuppa and a chat when just passing by.

KHL is a lifeline for the local community. It has really improved my mental and physical health and today’s training was very interesting and informative.

It’s a warm space here, it’s very inviting. Volunteering will help me in my plans for getting a job. It’s been a good experience and hopefully it will help me with my career progression.

A brilliant space to slow down, reduce stress and learn new skills.

Wonderful service from KHL and exercise group. Thank you so much for giving me the confidence and positive changes to manage a lot more than I was doing this time last year. Looking forward to life again.