A new team is taking healthcare out of the usual setting and into Darlington communities, with the aim of reaching people who can find the traditional system hardest to access.
Health Squad has been commissioned by Darlington Borough Council and is delivered by County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust. Rather than expecting everyone to navigate appointments and services in the same way, the team works flexibly with people facing barriers linked to , stigma, discrimination, trauma, violence or difficult previous experiences of healthcare.
The service has already supported more than 40 people since June. Its work can include a full health assessment, a personalised support plan and , as well as helping someone connect with other services affecting their .
One anonymised example shared by the NHS describes a resident who was supported to register with a GP and attend an appointment so could access medication for an condition. The team also helped him engage with housing services and begin looking for suitable accommodation.
That wider approach matters because health rarely sits in a neat box. Housing, money, safety and social circumstances can all affect whether somebody is able to get well and stay well.
The service operates Monday to Friday across a growing number of community venues in Darlington and can also arrange appointments at locations convenient to the person receiving support. Kings Church Food Bank is among the organisations hosting sessions.
Most referrals currently come through partner organisations, although residents can self-refer through Darlington Borough Council. Regular community clinics are expected to be introduced as the service develops.
The original announcement and further information are available from County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust.