PCN Initiatives
PCN Initiatives – Making a Difference in Our Community
GPPCN develops and supports initiatives that respond to the needs of our local population. These projects allow us to work with GP practices and community partners to reach people who may benefit from additional support.
Rough Sleeper Initiative – Bringing Healthcare Closer to People Experiencing Homelessness
Providing healthcare for people experiencing homelessness
Rough sleeping in Preston remains a significant public health issue. People experiencing homelessness can face poorer health outcomes and may experience challenges including mental ill-health, substance misuse, long-term physical health conditions, social isolation and difficulty accessing traditional healthcare services.
Our Rough Sleeper Initiative launched in July 2024 and is based at The Foxton Centre. Since the service began, we have registered over 120 people who are rough sleeping, many of whom had previously had little or no contact with healthcare services.
The clinic is a walk-in service, meaning no appointment is needed. This low-barrier approach makes it easier for people to access healthcare when they need it, particularly when their circumstances can change from day to day.
Clinic times
- Monday, Wednesday and Friday: 9:30am-12:30pm at The Foxton Centre, with a GP and nurse available
- Second Wednesday of each month: 8:00am-9:00am at the Night Shelter and 9:30am–11:30am at The Foxton Centre, with a GP and nurse available at both locations
Since launching, the service has provided more than 1,400 clinical consultations, supporting people with a wide range of health needs. This includes mental health support, drug and alcohol support, wound care, sexual health and harm reduction advice, vaccinations, medication reviews, health assessments and support with GP registration.
The team also provides treatment for wounds and injuries that may have been left untreated for some time.
The service provides a confidential, non-judgemental and supportive environment where people can talk about their health and access the care they need.
We work closely with The Foxton Centre, mental health services, Inspire and other local organisations to help people access additional support where appropriate.
By taking healthcare directly to people and building trust over time, the initiative aims to support earlier access to treatment, improve health and wellbeing and reduce the need for A&E attendances and unplanned hospital admissions.
Our aim is to ensure that people experiencing homelessness can access healthcare when they need it and receive the same standard of care and support as everyone else.
