Our comment on new neighbourhood health centres

Commenting on the UK government’s announcement of 27 new neighbourhood health centres, Head of Policy and Practice at the Royal College of Occupational Therapists, Joe Brunwin, said: 

‘Neighbourhood health is the right direction. Bringing care closer to home is how we create a more proactive NHS that reduces pressure on hospitals and gives people support earlier.  

‘The commitment to extend opening hours and to integrate wider support is especially important for tackling the broader factors that shape people’s health. However, for these centres to work, they must be properly funded and built around strong multidisciplinary teams. Occupational therapists must be a key part of this. Some early examples of the roles involved don’t yet highlight occupational therapists clearly, and it’s essential that their contribution is fully recognised as plans develop. 

‘Occupational therapists work across mental and physical health, social care, education and housing, making them perfectly placed to support people of all ages with a range of needs. They’re perfectly placed to help people manage their health needs, stay in work or school, keep on top of daily activities and do the things that matter for their wellbeing. 

‘If the government wants neighbourhood health centres that reduce demand on hospitals and help people live well for longer, it must invest in and include the occupational therapy workforce from the start.’