Bradford doctor surgery “best of its kind” in the UK – according to top health inspector

A MEDICAL practice in Bradford city centre has been hailed as “one of the best surgeries of its kind” in the country.

Bevan Healthcare is a is a social enterprise that provides NHS GP services to vulnerable people including the homeless, refugees and asylum seekers.

Its city centre wellbeing centre, on Piccadilly, recently welcomed chief inspector of general practice from the health and social care regulator, the Care Quality Commission last week as part of his visit to the city.

Professor Steve Field spent the morning at the surgery, which is rated outstanding by the CQC, meeting with those who use the service and finding out more about its work with the most vulnerable members of the local community. And he said the service has got even better since the outstanding judgement in 2016.

Bevan cares for over 6,000 people between its Bradford and Leeds surgeries. As well as the GP services, it also provides access to specialist nursing services like mental health nursing, counselling, housing support, advocacy, advice on benefits and a range of additional support to help people access local services.

The new wellbeing centre, funded by the Big Lottery, offers a programme of activities including drop-in sessions, antenatal support, cooking sessions, crafting groups, addiction recovery services, health trainer sessions and a homework club for young refugee children and those seeking asylum.

Speaking at his visit, Professor Field said: “This isn’t the first time I’ve visited Bevan Healthcare but when I realised I would be in the area I made sure I could come back and find out more about the progress the team have made.

“Bevan is rated as outstanding by the CQC and rightly so. It was rated in 2016 and it is even better now than it was then. This is one of the best surgeries of its kind in the country and the work it does in ensuring the most vulnerable members of the local community are cared for and supported should be applauded.

“The service goes above and beyond just meeting the medical needs of local people, providing a truly holistic one stop shop that has been replicated elsewhere in the UK and beyond due to its success.

“I’d like to congratulate the team at Bevan and its group of volunteers, many of whom are former service users or experts by experience, for their hard work and dedication in serving the people of Bradford.”

Professor Field met with patients and volunteers at Bevan as well as meeting Steve Manley, a former service user who is now employed by Bevan as a handyman.

Gina Rowland, managing director, said: “Bevan Healthcare is a real team effort and our patients and volunteers are very much part of how our services continue to develop and grow. I am proud to lead the team; they are remarkable and they all continue to deliver healthcare in often challenging circumstances to the very highest standard.”

Helen Hirst, chief officer for NHS Bradford District and Craven CCGs who commission Bevan Healthcare added: “Bevan is an inspiration to us all. In what are often the most challenging circumstances this practice focuses on wellbeing and broader issues that impact on health and time and time again show the positive impact this has. People want to work for Bevan and the passion and enthusiasm of staff is so evident every time you walk in.

“I’m excited to hear about future developments at the practice as we continue to work closely together in partnership to ensure positive health and care outcomes for the people of Bradford.”