We have seen some great work done by our teams and partners to improve the health of people we support. This has come through developing great relationships with local primary care services through GP and nurse support, mental health teams at the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Foundation Trust (CPFT), drugs and alcohol services (Aspire) and Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). We act as a hub for vaccinations and health screening and as importantly we regularly broker in and deliver support in haircuts, clean clothes, food and spiritual support.
But, there is more to do. Life expectancy on the streets is much lower than the national average, depression and severe ill health is common place with the people we support and access to health services can be a real challenge for many people. In response to this, in partnership with health commissioners within the Integrated Care System (ICS) and Addenbrookes Charitable Trust (ACT) we have been successful in securing funding from NHS Charities Together for a Homeless Health Hub for Peterborough. The funding led us to owning a new Health Outreach Bus which was launched at the start of September 2023. (watch short tour).
The bus features state of the art facilities replicating a doctor’s consultation room. There is also a ramp for wheelchair users and those with mobility issues. Treatments include dry blood spot testing, flu vaccinations, basic eye tests, and minor medical treatments such as dressing wounds and treating infections. The bus is sited at The Garden House but is also taken out to different venues and locations across the city where people on the streets congregate.
We are also able to provide new services including podiatry, dentistry, and physiotherapy. This was built on the feedback we received from guests at The Garden House and implemented by health partner agencies.
“I had a major pain with my teeth for some time, but thanks to having access to a dentist, I’ve now had a few teeth out which has really helped. I’m really grateful for this!” – Ashley
