Addressing the health needs of the community is paramount to WMNT, and in particular, issues around physical and mental health, and social isolation. We have continued to work in conjunction with Middlesbrough PCT, to mainstream a number of WMNT projects to ensure continued support in West Middlesbrough. These include:
- West Middlesbrough Community Development Worker, supporting residents and carrying out a range of healthy activities. This has been rolled out across the town with 5 such workers now in post;
- Community Parent Advisors and Weight Management Advisors;
- BME Health Promoter, helping make sure our health programmes reach our diverse communities;
- Welfare Rights Service - this project was commissioned through Middlesbrough Council, giving one to one advice for residents on benefits. Since 2004, the service has brough over £750,000 in previously unclaimed benefits into the area.
In 2008/09, WMNT continued to invest in the nationally awarded Family First project, which provides holistic services around families with multiple and complex issues.
Residents in need of support around addiction issues are now under a mainstreamed Fulcrum service, with an additional WMNT funded counselling service from the Albert Centre.
The Retired Senior Volunteer Programme (RSVP), funded by WMNT, continues to support older residents with support groups, activities and a friendship network. A number of these groups are now constituted, allowing them to apply for funding to ensure the sustainability of activities longer term.
For more information on WMNT's commitment to Improving Health and Care in West Middlesbrough contact Paul Wales, Operations Manager on (01642) 230555.