Cross-party support for city's threatened NHS walkin centre

A popular NHS walk-in centre in Norwich is under threat of closure as its contract enters its final year. In a recent review, the region's health commissioners have suggested locals could gain better value for money through alternative care means.

The facility - located on Roen Road - provides various services, including sexual health care, contraceptive advice, and minor injury, infection and illness treatments. Following the suggestion, a survey by Healthwatch Norfolk revealed that more than two-thirds of the facilities users regard their experience as positive.

While the service continues to operate at a loss, the report states the facility offers "excellent value for money", going on to highlight, “Feedback from existing service users and walk-in centre staff show that the centre fulfils an essential role in easing pressure on other NHS services, such as A&E and local GP practices, at a critical time for public health provision”.

The report concludes with several recommendations for potential improvements in the service's value for money. These include the consideration of an emergency dentist and a mental health clinic, along with creating telephone and virtual appointments for those in remote areas.

The issue has attracted crossparty support amongst local politicians, with Norwich North MP - the Conservative, Chloe Smith, stating, "Walk-in centre services in Norwich have served thousands of people over many years. When A&E and GP services are particularly under pressure, it would seem like a strange time to stop a simple way for people to see a doctor when they need to”.