19.11.19
Nursing the homeless back to health
Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust (KCHFT) are running drop-in clinics for the homeless at Maidstone Day Centre.
The service comes after an approach by Maidstone Borough Council calling for a nurse-led clinic to support the health of rough sleepers around the town.
Treatment for diabetes, lung disease, pregnancy, infected wounds and skin conditions are offered at the day centre to help the general health of homeless.
Complex Care Nurse Claire Knight and Head of Adult and Community Services Stephanie Rhodes are behind the project.
The two women have been working with a number of different organisations to bring different services together, including midwives, a health failure nurse and a Macmillan cancer support nurse.
The service also acts as a preventative measure, promoting healthy lifestyles and looking after yourself properly, including mental health support and financial advice.
The flu jab is also offered to the homeless as a way to safeguard them against the change in season.
Stephanie Rhodes said:
“Rough sleepers were falling through the healthcare net and this project aims to find them and give them accessible and non-judgemental healthcare.
“The programme has seen us make a real difference to the lives of rough sleepers. Getting the bike for one homeless man was life changing for him. There is so much more to do and scope for providing care for this vulnerable group of people.”
Claire Knight also put out a successful appeal out for a bike for one homeless man who said he felt isolated from lack of money.
Other donations included clothes, sleeping bags, tents, food and a mobile phone.
Pictured: Claire Knight