Over 30 people experiencing homelessness in Hertfordshire access vital services

A one-stop-clinic for health and wellbeing was set up in St Albans to help people who were or are experiencing homelessness.

Attendees enjoyed a jam-packed event run by Hightown Housing Association in partnership with Hertfordshire County Council.

At the event, over 30 people accessed vital services which are usually difficult to access and were treated to a warm breakfast and lunch. Some of the services included:

• Liver screening
• Hepatitis C testing
• Eye test and a pair of glasses if needed from First Vision
• Mind Hertfordshire – mental health support
• One Impossible thing – trainer donation
• Blood pressure monitoring
• Centre 33 – providing breakfast and lunch
• Archway Podiatry Surgery

The event was held at the Methodist Church in St Albans on 2 December. The homeless health pilot is a joint endeavour with Public Health / Hertfordshire County Council. Providers work collaboratively across multi agencies to provide a health offer under the pilot within supported housing settings to those experiencing homelessness.

Those who attended the event received a care package designed to help them through the winter months, including a brand new hat, scarf and gloves, as well as a toiletry pack.

A person supported by Hightown at one of their homeless services in St Albans, said:

“I’ve been to this event a couple of times now. There’s not always been that much help for homeless people but looking around here, there’s so much help available. It’s really good. Whether it’s mental health or gambling, people are here to help you.”

Another added:

“I came to this event last time. It’s so wonderful. You get treated so well. So far today I’ve had a haircut, had my eyes tested, had my liver tested and also had a flu jab. I was able to get some new boots for work. There’s no prejudice here, you’re not treated as a homeless person, just as a regular human being.”

Cllr Tony Kingsbury, Executive Member for Adult Care, Health and Wellbeing at Hertfordshire County Council said:

“It’s great to see all the services attending these events working together to bridge the health gaps for those who are either rough sleeping or in temporary accommodation. The staff at Hightown Housing Association have shown amazing energy and commitment at making this event successful for the people in St Albans.”

"The turnout at this event demonstrates the critical need for accessible health and wellbeing services for those experiencing homelessness," said Spiros Georgiou, Head of Homelessness & Mental Health Supported Housing at Hightown Housing Association. "We’re proud to collaborate with Hertfordshire County Council and other partners to make a tangible difference in people’s lives through initiatives like this."