A new national report from the National Development Team for Inclusion (NDTi) (in partnership with independent researchers) has highlighted the ways community hubs (defined in this instance as “local, welcoming spaces where health and care professionals work alongside community and third sector services”) are improving access to health and social care.

The research shows that when services are brought together in familiar local venues (such as libraries, faith buildings, sports clubs and supermarkets), people are more likely to access timely advice, support and care, more easily.

The evaluation (part of the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) National Priority Programme for Adult Social Care and Social Work) looked at hubs in four local authority areas across the UK, and drew on wider examples from over 30 community hubs nationally. Researchers found that successful hubs share features such as:

accessible locations
a range of professionals and services
clear navigation support
effective promotion to reach excluded communities

Lead investigator Professor Robin Miller, of the University of Birmingham, spoke about how bringing support directly into neighbourhood spaces helps people get the right advice earlier and improves wellbeing and independence.

Jenny Pitts, lead for Community Led Support at NDTi, said:

“The hubs show what is possible when community‑based support is co‑produced and rooted in places people already know and trust.”

The research reinforces the importance of community‑rooted approaches to health and social care, aligning with national policy ambitions to deliver more support closer to home and reduce inequalities in access.

To access the full report, or for further information, please visit the NDTi website (linked for your convenience).