A trailblazing partnership programme delivering innovative support to people experiencing homelessness has been shortlisted in the prestigious national General Practice Awards 2023.
ELFT's Greenhouse Practice and Driving for Change, which use refurbished London buses to provide an all-in-one direct intervention service for people experiencing homelessness, are finalists in the Long Term Conditions Award category.
Change Please Foundation/Driving for Change has partnered with ELFT and the North East London Health & Care Partnership (NELHCP) for the ground-breaking initiative in Hackney which offers mobile, informal, welcoming and open access for some of the most vulnerable members of society.
The bus programme offers free GP consultations, dental care, haircuts, and financial literacy training, employment support, shower facilities, therapy assessments, and essential everyday items.
The aim is to give people experiencing homelessness practical support and to help open pathways to potentially life-saving key services.
"We are honoured to have been shortlisted for this prestigious award. This innovative partnership between our Greenhouse Practice, Driving for Change, and local organisations exemplifies our commitment to improving health equity and access to care for London's most vulnerable residents," said Dr Mohit Venkataram, Primary Care Executive Director at ELFT. "The mobile clinic model brings comprehensive medical, dental, and social services directly to those in need. We are proud to collaborate on this compassionate programme that can truly change lives."
The Greenhouse Practice at ELFT, provides specialised care for rough sleepers and vulnerable populations in Hackney.
Driving for Change was also named Primary Care Project of the Year at the HSJ Partnership Awards 2023.
The General Practice Awards will be held in London on December 8, 2023.
