Healthcare event brings vital support to people sleeping rough

Published: 30 September 2026 Councillor Saima Ahmed, Cabinet Member for Housing and Homelessness speaks with service users and providers

People sleeping rough in Redbridge were able to access a range of health, wellbeing and practical support services at a special healthcare event held recently at the Welcome Centre. 

The Welcome Centre provides year-round support for rough sleepers and vulnerable adults, offering information, advice and guidance on issues associated with homelessness. The service also provides practical support such as food, showers, clothing and laundry facilities as well as help to access volunteering, training and employment opportunities. 

Building on this everyday support, the healthcare event brought together specialist organisations from across the borough to provide support in one location, helping people access services that can often be difficult to engage with while experiencing homelessness. Attendees were able to receive health checks, eye tests, foot care support, drug and alcohol advice, haircuts, manicure services and wellbeing guidance. 

Organisations supporting the event included Specsavers, VIA (the drug and alcohol service), Single Homeless Project (SHP), podiatry services, Haircuts4Homeless and other local partners committed to improving the health and wellbeing of some of the borough's most vulnerable residents. 

The event forms part of an ongoing partnership approach involving local services working together to remove barriers to support and create opportunities for people sleeping rough to improve their health, wellbeing and quality of life. Similar events have previously been held throughout the year and will continue in 2027.  

Councillor Saima Ahmed, Cabinet Member for Housing and Homelessness, said: “It was a privilege to meet and speak with people attending the event and hear about their hopes and aspirations for the future. Everyone deserves the opportunity to improve their circumstances and access the support they need to move forward. 

“What struck me was the commitment shown by so many organisations working together to make a real difference. By bringing healthcare, wellbeing services and practical support together in one place, we're helping people take positive steps for their health, confidence and independence. 

“I'd like to thank all our partners and staff for their care, compassion and dedication. This event demonstrates how partnership working can help us reach people when they need support most and empower them to build a brighter future.” 

The Council and its partners continue to work together to support people experiencing homelessness, recognising that improving health, wellbeing and personal confidence can play an important role in helping someone move towards more stable housing and a better quality of life.