TOGETHER BETTER
Huge numbers of City and Hackney residents are struggling with social isolation and poor mental health, and are not just in need of medical services. They need social contact. This includes patients described as “frequent attendees” – the 7% of patients who use 30-40% of a surgery’s services.
That’s why Volunteer Centre Hackney developed the Together Better service.

Together Better partners with local surgeries, empowering local residents to deliver and participate in activities at GP surgeries across City and Hackney. The service taps into the skills and interests of the local community, and harnesses the proven benefits of volunteering to address isolation and loneliness, support residents to develop and hone skills, build confidence and resilience, improve mental and physical health, and strengthen communities. This provides a grassroots antidote to the increasing strains on local healthcare services by increasing staffing capacity and morale.
Some of the activities that have run so far have included art groups, fitness groups, support groups, gardening, and board games. Volunteers have also provided admin, reception, digital, and meet and greet support to GP surgeries.
Get in touch with our friendly team to find out more about Together Better, volunteer opportunities, or how you can come to activities near you:
Claire Ferrigi, Together Better Project Manager
07305016611, Claire.ferrigi@vchackney.org
Valentina Ines La Mela, Together Better Team Leader
07305 016640, Valentina@vchackney.org
FUNDERS
PARTNERS
We work closely with the Primary Care Networks, local GPs, Patient Participation Groups, and local Neighbourhoods, as well as local community groups and services.
GP surgeries hosting VCH’s Together Better service:
Barton House Group Practice, Cranwich Road Surgery, Elsdale Street Surgery, Heron Practice, Lawson Practice, Lea Surgery, Lower Clapton Group Practice, Neaman Practice, Nightingale Practice, Queensbridge Group Practice, Richmond Road Medical Centre, Somerford Grove Group Practice, Spring Hill Practice, and Well Street Surgery.