We are supporting health and wellbeing in Worcester
A new initiative designed to make health services more accessible for local residents has received vital funding from our Community Chest fund
Oasis Community Hub in Warndon applied to our Community Chest, a funding pot for our customers and local charities, clubs and other not-for-profit organisations for any projects directly benefitting our customers; all applications are assessed against specific eligibility criteria by customers who sit on our Customer Voice Panel.
The grant will support the hub as it expands its Health Hub offer, a growing programme of services designed to support people with their physical, mental and financial wellbeing.
Led by Hub Leader Hannah Harrison, the project brings together a wide range of partners including the NHS, Ruby Midwifery Team, Citizens Advice and digital inclusion volunteers. Thanks to Community Chest funding, the HUB will now be able to offer weekly physiotherapy sessions - both one to one and group based – for local people who may otherwise struggle to travel to hospital or clinic appointments.
Hannah said: “We’re seeing real impact in the community, whether it’s people attending health screenings for the first time or families no longer relying on food banks. The addition of physio sessions means we can do even more to remove barriers to care. Being based in the heart of Warndon, we’re trusted by local people and able to support them in a holistic way.”
The new sessions – up to 180 appointments in total – will run for 30 weeks and include refreshments and signposting to additional support. They’ll take place alongside other existing health focused initiatives, including a partnership with the NHS Health Bus and the Oasis food pantry model.
Paul Edwards, our Community Engagement Officer said: “We’re proud to support Oasis Warndon and the fantastic work they’re doing. The Health Hub is a powerful example of community led health support that makes a real difference to people’s lives. Bringing services directly to people’s doorsteps is vital, especially for those living with long term health conditions or limited mobility.”
Around 60 per cent of those expected to benefit from the sessions are our customers. The funding will cover session costs, utility contributions and refreshments.
Paul also recently organised a two day Communities Connected event to redecorate the Hub so that it was a fresh and welcoming space.
The Community Chest fund is available for our customers and local groups delivering projects that tackle isolation, improve wellbeing and strengthen communities. To find out more, visit www.platformhg.com.
Photo caption : l to r, Hannah Harrison, Hub Leader, Oasis Community Hub Warndon and Oliver Nightingale, Chartered Physiotherapist, Founder and Director of Health Valued and Associate Lecturer in the School of Allied Health and Community, University of Worcester