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“She was a lovely lady and was so helpful. She asked me relevant questions and listened/commented on my answers before asking the next question, which I have to say I find some medical professionals don’t do.
She took on board my feelings about reducing my medication, whilst checking that I was sure that I wanted to go ahead.
I felt valued and heard and I just wanted to say thank you so much to her for her time and attention.”
J Lewis
Patient feedback for Braintree PCN pharmacy technician
Braintree PCN
The Live Well Hub, Manor Street, Braintree, CM7 3HP
Non-urgent advice: How this PCN created a Neighbourhood Health Hub
Braintree PCN has created a health hub in the town centre – a pioneering model of neighbourhood-based integrated primary care.
Braintree PCN serves a rapidly growing population of more than 58,000 patients across five practices. But with a growing and ageing population going through post-pandemic recovery, Braintree PCN faced significant health inequalities and stretched workforce capacity. Limited clinical space was also a problem. Despite optimising rotas, appointment models and maximising available space, estate limitations continued to limit innovation and access.
So, the PCN transformed vacant premises within the NHS Livewell Hub in the heart of Braintree into a health hub, creating a pioneering model of neighbourhood based, integrated primary care.
Launched in August 2023, the PCN health hub has delivered over 63,564 appointments (figures taken from Sept 2023 up to Sept 2025) and provided thousands of hours of direct patient care, relieving pressure on individual GP practices and transforming access across the network.
At a time of estate limitations and rising demand, the health hub demonstrates how space innovation and integrated design can help future-proof primary care.
The opportunity to re-purpose a vacant town centre unit offered a solution: a fit-for-purpose site to deliver PCN services at scale outside the traditional surgery environment.
The aim of the health hub was to alleviate pressure on individual surgeries by co-locating multiple services. We aimed to improve efficiency and improve access, particularly for patients disengaged from traditional models of care.
Patients can access a wide range of services, including clinical acute care, preventative programmes, and community-based support, all under one roof.
The hub hosts PCN-led initiatives, such as acute same day appointments, NHS health checks, SMI reviews and vaccinations, as well as neighbourhood networking groups including a Dementia Drop in Group, CVD Prevention (Healthy Heart Event) and a Bereavement Café.
Mental wellbeing, social prescribing support and cancer care coordination are embedded within the day-to-day delivery.
Integration
Integration underpins the hub’s success. The PCN works closely with Braintree District Council, as well as commissioned providers, including the Cancer Alliance, Essex County Council and Provide Health. These strategic collaborations support sustainable, cross-sector solutions.
Our integrated model reduces pressure on GP appointments by effective task-shifting and strengthens workforce resilience. Shared staffing and the ability to pilot new roles, such as community paramedics and care coordinators, have created a dynamic and sustainable workforce model.
The health hub has become a centre for professional development. Registered as a PCN Research organisation, we are supported by The National Institute for Health and Care Research to facilitate the delivery of research within primary care, aiming to improve patient care and reduce health inequalities.
The PCN health hub holds a monthly clinical learning and development meeting for all clinicians working across the five practices. This meeting allows clinicians from multiple disciplines to work collaboratively to review cases, share learning and proactively improve patient outcomes.
Working to the principles of the NHS 10 year plan, we are working towards implementing a shift from hospital to community based care. Our Transformation Lead is developing a frailty project ensuring we are working proactively rather than reactively. This is an exciting opportunity which aims to make a real difference to the Braintree district.
Extended Access
By relocating PCN clinics and partners into a shared, fit-for-purpose environment, the PCN has increased appointments and maximised efficiency of its ARRS workforce. Previously, we had been hampered by the lack of space to accommodate ARRS staff.
The shared site has unlocked capacity for ARRS staff, enabling extended access services to be delivered within the central hub location.
Extended access is delivered weekdays 6.30pm-8.00pm and all day Saturdays. The Saturday surgery comprises a full workforce including multiple GPs, ANPs, clinical prescribers and enhanced nurses.
Family Planning Clinics and Well Woman Clinics are held most weekends and seasonal flu clinics and health checks are routinely held.
The Hub has also helped revitalise the Braintree area, promoted place-based care, and developed a replicable and sustainable model.
Future
Our reputation for innovative, high-impact delivery has made Braintree PCN a leading example of neighbourhood-level integration.
This is a scalable and sustainable model supported by the Integrated Care Board and Provide Health. It is providing a growing evidence base with ongoing research.
Expansion plans include hosting and developing community provision.
By delivering services in a welcoming town-centre location, we have transformed access, reduced pressure on practices, and embedded health within the community.
Braintree PCN has created a blueprint for modern, resilient primary care – accessible, preventative, inclusive, and truly collaborative.
111 is the NHS non-emergency number. It’s fast, easy and free. Call 111 and speak to a highly trained adviser, supported by healthcare professionals. They will ask you a series of questions to assess your symptoms and immediately direct you to the best medical care for you. NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Calls are free from landlines and mobile phones. In case of a life-threatening emergency, please dial 999.
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