Connecting with our communities leads to ongoing support for patients in need

A simple act of kindness has sparked a growing effort to help vulnerable patients access essential services and stay warm throughout the winter months.

A cold January morning saw a patient present at Ashton GP Service to book an urgent appointment and asked to stay inside to keep warm while he waited. Gemma Rowlinson (left), senior administrator, offered him a hot drink and a quiet place to rest in the wellbeing room.

During their conversation, Gemma realised he was unaware of local food banks, warm hubs and other community support. Gemma reached out to the primary care network’s social prescribers, who provided information on available resources.

A week later, another patient arrived at the practice without an appointment, looking for a warm place to sit. Gemma noticed he was wearing sliders and lacked suitable winter clothing. Wanting to support this patient, she launched a warm clothing appeal asking for donations from staff and the community.

Gemma said she was blown away by the response.

“Contributions came from practice staff and the community, with generous support received from head office and Kruger, a company specialising in healthy snacks and sports nutrition, which donated large boxes of brandnew athletic wear,” she said.

“The patient was so happy when he received the clothes, he said he felt more like himself again.”

“Two days later, he came back to say he had secured a flat and I was the first person he wanted to tell. That moment reminded me how powerful small acts of kindness can be. It’s about more than healthcare, it’s about making people feel seen, supported and valued.”

Since then, Ashton GP Service has expanded its partnership with local social prescribers and support groups. Monthly drop-in sessions are now hosted on-site, offering vulnerable patients access to tailored advice and practical help.

Katie Schofield, clinical services manager, said she is proud of Gemma for introducing this initiative and providing great quality care to the local community.

“This work highlights that healthcare goes beyond prescriptions and the importance of recognising the social factors that impact people’s lives,” she said.

“Being homeless, especially in winter, can take a huge toll on someone’s health. Gemma and the team have shown remarkable compassion, and their support is making a positive difference.”

Ashton GP Service held a drop-in session for patients on Friday, 25 April. The practice team were joined by representatives from WorkWell, who help people facing health-related barriers to employment. The session was aimed at people who are employed, unemployed or looking to return to work, including those with physical or learning disabilities, autism or other health issues that may affect their ability to work. Social prescribers were also on hand to offer advice and signpost to local groups, activities and community support. To read more, please click here.