Torbay’s MP Kevin Foster today (Tuesday 6th June 2023) helped launch a new community hub at Paignton Library, where Torbay residents looking for information on where to access local support can have their queries answered face-to-face.
The Community Hub was initially launched in March by local non-profit community organisation Engaging Communities South West. They are working with key partners from the Torbay Health and Wellbeing Voluntary Sector Network, including the Torbay Community Helpline, run by Torbay Community Development Trust, Age UK, Citizen’s Advice Torbay, healthcare consumer champion Healthwatch Torbay, and many others. The service has been funded by a contribution from Torbay Council’s Adult Social Care precept.
The hub is open every weekday from 9.30am – 1.30pm, and have new partners delivering regular drop in services, including Eat That Frog, Carers Support, Torbay Advice Network, and Tidy Home, Tidy Mind.
Local healthcare services are also available on request, with a weekly Diabetic Eye Screening clinic taking place, alongside a pilot with Corner Place Surgery and Public Health Torbay to provide blood pressure checks and a presence from the Torbay Healthy Lifestyles Team, who provide a range of free services and support to help people to make and maintain positive changes in their lives. In addition, South Devon College health and social care students will be running a digital support session every Monday and Friday, and their Art Department will soon be filling the walls with student artwork.
Kevin Foster MP said: “It is great to see this new hub open providing a range of support and advice to residents. Timely advice can make a real difference when facing a difficult situation and this facility ensures it is easy to access when needed.”
