The model of Focused Care is proven to work within a Primary Care setting. Our Independent Evaluation shows the likelihood of improved health and social outcomes if Focused Care is involved with the patient.
Our partner organisation Shared Health, works to reduce the impact of poverty on health. There are an increasing number of homeless families entering the statutory duties of the local authority in Oldham. Our Focused Care Practitioners initially spotted this in early 2018. Shared Health have piloted an innovate project working with the local authority and NHS to help support Homeless Families – The Healthy Gems Hub.
The Healthy Gems Hub receives referrals from any professional in Oldham working with a family with a child in nappies or a mother expecting a baby. Oldham Council refer in Homeless Families who they deem need more support from the Hub. Our trained Midwife and Focused Care Practitioners are placed within the Housing Team to provide the same holistic support of Focused Care but instead outside of Primary Care.
This pilot has been running for over 2 years now and we have seen similar health and social outcomes from the families we work with.
In the following episode of the Hope in the Deep End podcast, Dr Laura Neilson speaks with Angie Ouattara (Maternal Health Lead) and Matt Frosdyck (Focused Care Practitioner for Homeless Families) about homelessness and the support the families receive through Homeless Families.
Shared Health are always striving to make a greater impact in the most deprived areas in Greater Manchester and beyond. If you want to trial Focused Care in your area, either in Primary Care, Housing or maybe another area then please get in touch.
