Mobile unit will bring care to rough sleepers and homeless

A mobile health unit designed to provide on-the-spot medical care to rough sleepers and the homeless will be on the streets of Trafford for the first time this week. It will be visiting Stretford, Old Trafford, Sale, Altrincham and Partington to offer much-needed support to those most in need of help.

The Trafford council-backed unit will offer a range of treatments including vaccinations (Covid-19, flu), health checks, blood tests (with support of a registered GP), mobile ECG tests, dentist support, sexual health advice and immunisation support. It will also provide help with obtaining E-Cigs, GP registration and will offer free shopping vouchers and goodie bags.

The unit was bought after the council was successful in winning a bid totalling £237,526 from the Government as part of the Rough Sleeper Initiative (RSI). The RSI funding will be used to provide a tenancy support worker, a 'personalisation fund', more emergency accommodation and transport support.

READ MORE:Major road closed amid 'collapse' as drivers told to avoid the area

Trafford will also benefit from a full-time rough sleeper outreach worker, a psychologist, a dual diagnosis worker and funding for two workers to help with complex cases.

The cash will be used to support Trafford Council’s corporate priorities to support people out of poverty and reduce health inequalities in the borough.

Coun James Wright, Trafford council’s executive Member for Housing and Neighbourhoods, said: “We are totally committed to helping homeless people and those who are sleeping rough. This mobile health unit will be of huge importance to those who find themselves in the devastating position of being homeless.

“It will give people access to mobile health care including