Name revealed for new NHS health and wellbeing centre

A new health and wellbeing centre taking shape in Thanet now has a name – chosen with the help of local people and NHS staff.

Now officially called Thanet Community Health Hub, the name was the most popular choice in a recent public survey, inviting the community to have their say.

The hub, at the former Canterbury Christ Church University building in Northwood Road, Broadstairs, will bring together a wide range of NHS community services, a new community diagnostics centre and early next year, voluntary sector organisations too. It will also become the new home for St Peter’s GP practice.

Karen Sharp, Director of the East Kent Health and Care Partnership, said: “The name Thanet Community Health Hub reflects the hub’s purpose; to serve the people of Thanet, improve community health and provide more accessible and joined-up care, all under one roof.

"The name captures the spirit of what we’re creating –  a welcoming and inclusive space, focused on supporting the health and wellbeing of the whole community. We want to thank everyone who took part in the survey and shared their ideas.”

To continue the project's commitment to community involvement at every stage, a new Thanet Community Health Hub Citizens' Panel held its first meeting. Travel, parking and community groups being able to use the hub were among the topics discussed. To make sure it is an inclusive panel, which represents a diverse range of people and experiences, people from under-represented groups are being encouraged to join, so that all local people have a say in how the hub develops.

The naming survey was open to staff, patients, local residents and health and care organisations. From the beginning, Thanet residents, NHS staff, and voluntary groups have played a central role in shaping the vision for the £10 million facility.

Led by the East Kent Health and Care Partnership (EKHCP), the innovative project aims to deliver better, more joined-up and proactive care for people in Thanet, with a strong focus on prevention and helping people stay well for longer.

St Peter’s Surgery will move into the hub at the beginning of November. Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust (KCHFT) will move their services from November, including podiatry, physiotherapy and community nursing. The community diagnostics centre will have a staggered start with some services up and running before Christmas.

Patients and those who use the services, will be kept up-to-date with changes as the new hub prepares to open its doors to patients.