The HIP Wellness Team: A brief history

In the world of health, we all understand that being healthy is more than just quick visits to the doctor. Lots of our patients come to us not only for medical help but also because they need someone to talk to and be with, especially when they're feeling worried, overwhelmed, or alone. Plus, the biggest impact on our health and how we feel in our minds often comes from our homes and communities where we live and connect with others.

Small changes in our habits—like moving more, eating better, and sleeping well—can really boost how we feel, both physically and mentally.

Pudsey

We discovered an impressive project in Pudsey that was helping people facing these challenges. It operates from the Robin Lane Health and Wellbeing Centre. With a goal to better support patients, they sought assistance from their local community. Out of 13,500 patients approached, 50 regular volunteers emerged, forming 26 interest groups—sewing, ukulele playing, and walking. Notably, people visited the practice less, leading to increased happiness for both patients and staff, and even reducing emergency room visits.

HIP Community Project

On the Isle of Dogs, the health of the local community is taken care of by the Primary Care Network (Network 8/Healthy Island Partnership). In 2019, we received funding to support the overall well-being of the area. Inspired by the Robin Lane Health and Wellbeing Centre, we imagined what could happen if all 50,000 residents of the Isle of Dogs got involved.

Our idea was to help people connect with each other, provide better guidance for healthy living, and give residents tools to make smarter health choices. We knew that various groups and projects were already happening on the Island but we wanted to work closely with them to help people even more.

That's when the HIP Community Project was born!

We’re now funded by The Island Health Trust to deliver various projects to support our residents health and wellbeing