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St George’s Health and Wellbeing Hub marked its first anniversary earlier in December with a festive community celebration and Christmas lights switch on led by Julia Lopez MP.

The event brought together residents, volunteers, and NHS partners to reflect on a year in which the hub has become a model for modern, integrated community healthcare in Havering.

Since opening last year, the hub has brought GP services, outpatient clinics, mental health support, and a state-of-the-art Community Diagnostic Centre together under one roof serving around 250,000 people across Havering and neighbouring areas.

By offering multiple services in a single location, the hub has made care more convenient while easing pressure on local hospitals. 

Among services at the centre is a renal dialysis unit run by Barts Health, giving patients access to specialist kidney care closer to home.

Dr Ravi Rajakariar, Clinical Director for Renal Medicine and Transplantation at Barts Health,said: “Over the past year, the new Kidney Unit at St George’s has become an essential part of our renal network, , providing local, reliable, and compassionate care for our patients. For many, the shorter journey, the familiar team, and the access to integrated care have made a profound difference to their quality of life. I’m grateful to the whole team whose hard work and commitment have built such a warm, safe and supportive environment for our patients and staff."

Julia Lopez MP for Hornchurch and Upminster reflected on the hub’s impact: “St George’s Health and Wellbeing Hub has had a transformative impact on health services in Havering, bringing a huge variety of services from primary care, renal dialysis and frailty services to the heart of the community and away from acute settings. This new model of truly integrated care has the potential to deliver radical improvements to the health service.”

Alongside the reflections, the celebration brought a warm, festive atmosphere. Residents enjoyed children’s craft activities, hot chocolate, and winter wellbeing support, including free flu and COVID vaccinations for those eligible. Health and wellbeing teams were on hand to offer practical advice to help people stay well throughout the colder months.

A special moment in the event was the recognition of the hub’s volunteer team. More than 90 volunteers have contributed over 9,500 hours equivalent to more than £140,000 of support to welcome visitors, provide reassurance, and help people navigate the building. Volunteers Jen and Jan, who have each given over 300 hours, said they were proud to be part of a place that supports not only people’s health needs but also social connections.

The hub continues to expand its offer, with features including an Ageing Well Centre, dementia friendly gardens, community spaces, and a welcoming café that encourages residents to stay, connect and feel part of a supportive community environment.

For more information about the services available, visit the St George’s Health and Wellbeing Hub website.