We work with disadvantaged communities in Leeds to promote happy and healthy lifestyles

We are heartbroken to announce that Zest – Health for Life will be closing it’s doors. 

For many years, we have been proud to work alongside some of the most amazing people and communities in Leeds. Together we have helped create connections, choice and celebration. Our mission has always been rooted in creating meaningful and lasting change and we are confident that, as we leave, Leeds is a more joyful, compassionate and healthy place because of that collaboration. 

In recent years we have lost significant long term funding streams and have faced growing challenges in replacing them. To face this challenge, we have worked tirelessly and creatively to diversify our income through new partnerships, community fundraising, and alternative funding models. We are incredibly proud of these efforts and of the dedication shown by our team, volunteers, and supporters.  

However, despite these efforts we have not been able to secure the financial stability we need to continue our work. With our cash reserves running low and no concrete long-term funding in place, the Board has taken the incredibly difficult decision to close the charity. This decision was not made lightly. However, by acting early, we hope we can ensure a well-planned and orderly wind down of our operations by the end of 2025. 

Our priority now is to responsibly bring our work to a close while supporting a smooth transition for the projects and people we serve. We have begun dialogue with our funders to see if it is possible for our current initiatives to find new homes—so that the values, relationships, and impact we’ve built can continue in other settings. 

We want to express our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported us—our staff, volunteers, funders, partners, and the wider community. Your generosity, energy, and belief in our mission have helped us deliver impactful work that will be felt for years to come. 

Thank you for being part of our journey.