Sunderland Women’s Health Hub: A Beacon of Support for Women and Girls
Sunderland’s lead councillor for equalities recently visited the NHS Women’s Health Hub in the city to learn more about the positive impact it has on the lives of local women and girls, as well as the innovative services being introduced.
A Growing Resource for Women’s Health
Since its launch earlier this year, the Women’s Health Hub, located in Pallion, has welcomed over 1,200 women, thanks to funding from the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB). Councillor Alison Smith, Sunderland City Council’s Cabinet Member for Corporate Services and Equalities, expressed her enthusiasm following the visit.
"It was wonderful to witness firsthand the remarkable services provided at this facility and to learn about its benefits for women in Sunderland," stated Councillor Smith. She noted that the hub is one of only three in the North East and North Cumbria, providing a centralized access point for various essential health services.
Improving Access to Health Services
Councillor Smith highlighted the significant difference the hub is making in the lives of women, emphasizing how it allows them to access a comprehensive suite of services all in one location, eliminating the need for multiple appointments scattered across different venues. "I was particularly pleased to hear how the hub supports women who may find it challenging to access traditional health services," she added.
The council is dedicated to collaborating with partners to enhance the well-being of women and girls, which aligns with the ICB’s funding of the Women’s Health Hub. "Having a facility like this in our community is truly beneficial for all women and girls in Sunderland," she remarked.
Comprehensive Services Offered
Supported by a substantial investment of £250,000 from the North East and North Cumbria ICB, and developed in partnership with local healthcare providers, the hub offers a wide array of expert services. This includes menopause support, long-acting contraception fitting, and, where necessary, cervical screenings, all conveniently provided at the Hylton Medical Group facility.
During her visit, Councillor Smith learned about an exciting new development at the hub: a skilled team of sonographers now offering on-site ultrasound scans of the pelvic region, uterus, and ovaries. This service aims to reduce waiting times for diagnostic tests requested by GP practices and enables women to receive necessary ultrasound scans during or shortly after their appointment at the hub.
The team has plans to train nurses and GPs to conduct ultrasound scans to the same high standards as qualified sonographers, further enhancing the service’s offerings.
A Commitment to Women’s Health
Claire Riley, chief corporate services officer and women’s health lead at the ICB, emphasized the importance of the hub, stating, "It’s wonderful that Councillor Smith was able to witness the meaningful impact this hub is already making for women in Sunderland. We aspire for our region to lead in improving women’s health by understanding and addressing their unique health needs more effectively than before."
Accessing the Hub
Women can easily access services at the Sunderland Women’s Health Hub through their GP practice. A simple appointment can be made via the reception desk without needing a doctor’s visit first. For women with more complex health concerns, such as issues related to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) side effects, their GP may opt for a referral to ensure tailored care.
The Women’s Health Hub stands as a vital resource for women and girls in Sunderland, fostering improved health outcomes and empowering women through accessible and comprehensive healthcare services.
