Festive cheer at Tees learning disability health café
The Learning Disability Health Café at South Bank Library held a special festive event in the run up to Christmas.
Taking place each month, the café provides a supportive environment for people with learning disabilities to access healthcare information in an informal, friendly environment.
Over 50 people attended the event, including Redcar MP, Anna Turley. They enjoyed a Christmas quiz, mince pies and a chance to win a festive hamper.
The event was also an opportunity to showcase the support available at the café, which is run by Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust (TEWV) and Eston Primary Care Network.
Each month, the café focuses on a healthcare topic, to help people with learning disabilities improve their health. Next year's topics will include dental health, cancer awareness and personal security awareness.
Lisa Boyer, primary care learning disability link worker with TEWV, said: “The Health Café is for people who may struggle to access traditional healthcare. It offers a welcoming, informal space for, accessible health information.”
Lisa said: “We would like to increase this and encourage new people to come along.”
In July, Lisa received a Healthwatch spotlight award for creating the Health Care Café and her innovative approach to healthcare.
Sue Sargeant, advanced nurse practitioner, said: “The rationale behind the café was to break down health barriers to overcome the health inequalities faced by people with a learning disability. This has been achieved with the gold standard support offered. As a result, it has improved the quality of life for so many people, who previously struggled to access services.”
Dr Ifti Lone, Clinical Director, Eston Primary Care Network said: "We are the only PCN in Tees Valley who have a Learning Disability Link Worker that is jointly funded with TEWV. We are delighted with the care being provided.
"I am encouraged by the improved support from Lisa and the TEWV team, which results in a high standard of care for patients with a learning disability."
Anna Turley MP said: “It was really good to spend time at the Learning Disability Health Café and to meet both the staff and the people who use the service.
"These sessions make a real difference, offering a welcoming, relaxed space where people with learning disabilities can access support, ask questions and feel listened to. A big thank you to the Eston Primary Care Network and the fantastic staff involved for the care, commitment and professionalism they show every day in supporting our community.”
Liz Whitehead, commissioning manager in the Tees Valley mental health, learning disability and neurodiversity team with the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB) said: "It was fantastic to take part in the café on Friday and see everyone get into the festive spirit.
"The café is a fantastic example of engaging with people in a more informal setting to promote positive healthcare."