HealthBus Drop-in Session!

Who are we?

The HealthBus Trust is a charity that provides accessible and appropriate healthcare to people experiencing homelessness in Bournemouth and the surrounding areas. The Trust operates a mobile, GP-led service in close relationship with a multidisciplinary team and other providers of homeless services. 

Community impact

Established in 2016 by Dr Maggie Kirk, the HealthBus Trust is here to bring hope, dignity and enable positive change for people experiencing homelessness. The Trust's vision is to reduce health inequalities and develop world class expertise in homeless health through multidisciplinary partnership working. The charity believes that every person has an equal right to effective and evidence-based healthcare that is delivered in a safe and non-judgemental environment.

The Trust partners with clinical and non-clinical teams to create a wrap-around service that helps people improve their physical and mental health, free themselves from addiction and move on from homelessness. The HealthBus service reduces demand on NHS secondary care and other service providers. The Trust also collaborates with hospital teams to reduce the ‘revolving door’ syndrome that sees individuals going in and out of hospital. This helps reduce demand and frees up resources for the wider community.

Why are we crowdfunding?

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council have estimated there are at least 450* recognised homeless people in this area, plus an unknown number of ‘invisible’ homeless (i.e. sofa surfers and people staying in temporary accommodation). *2019 YMCA stats.

The key to success is that the Trust takes healthcare to people that are on the margins of society, disengaged and in many cases dehumanised by wider society. In partnership with allied services, we provide hope and opportunity at the point of need.

The Trust now operates weekly drop-in week and has seen a dramatic positive impact upon the health and wellbeing of the homeless population. Many people with underlying health conditions are not accessing treatment until their condition becomes acute. The Trust are helping individuals to maintain their condition and therefore aiding their recovery. This is helping them to put their lives back together whilst empowering them away from living the streets.

How we’ll spend the money raised

Our weekly drop-in session give those that are vulnerable or need support the space and time to connect with key professionals. Often patients come for a hot drink, have food and spend time in a warm space. Some patients enjoy the opportunity to connect and talk with our volunteers about practical things to help them access essential services. 

With support from the community and local business our desire is to ensure patients can access the following in a safe environment when they visit: 

- Hot drinks and food,

- Warm space to rest,

- Hair dressing and hair cuts,

- Clothing if required due to damp/hygiene,

- Access to digital communication,

- Signposting to relevant and essential services.