What began as a mobile outreach service has become one of East Riding’s most innovative examples of partnership working-bringing healthcare directly to people who are often least likely to access traditional services.

The Health Inclusion Van is showing that some of the most meaningful improvements in healthcare do not always happen within clinic walls. They happen when services meet people where they are.

Working alongside Primary Care, Public Health, specialist nursing teams, local authorities and voluntary-sector organisations, the van is helping tackle some of the most significant health inequalities faced by people affected by homelessness, substance use and social exclusion.

Expanding Access for Vulnerable Communities
The service continues to develop, introducing new initiatives that make healthcare more accessible for vulnerable communities.

Alongside its core offer, the van provides blood-borne virus testing, physical-health assessments, point-of-care testing, harm-reduction advice, substance-use support and referrals into treatment. Every contact provides an opportunity to improve health, reduce inequalities and connect people with wider support.

Specialist Wound Care on the Road
A recent development has seen Tissue Viability Nurses deliver wound assessment, triage and dressing changes directly through the Health Inclusion Van.

This means people with complex wounds can receive timely care without needing to attend hospital. For many, it has helped prevent wounds from deteriorating, while also building trust and encouraging longer-term engagement with health services.

Earlier Detection of Tuberculosis
Partnership working has also strengthened links with specialist Tuberculosis (TB) services. TB nurses now provide screening and assessments alongside the outreach team, increasing access to testing for people at greater risk.

This proactive approach has already identified a positive TB case, enabling a rapid referral for treatment. It is a clear example of the value of taking preventative healthcare directly into communities.

Building Trust With Communities
The team’s work to reduce health inequalities extends to the Traveller community, where colleagues have worked with residents on environmental projects, including community litter-picking activities.

Simple initiatives such as these can create meaningful opportunities to build relationships, develop trust and start conversations about health and wellbeing in a supportive, non-judgemental setting.

Reaching People in New Settings
The Health Inclusion Van has also begun regular visits to local farmers’ markets, extending its reach to older people and others who may benefit from health advice, screening and support but do not routinely engage with services.

By appearing in familiar, accessible places, the team can offer support early and help make healthcare feel more approachable.

Partnership at Its Best
The success of the Health Inclusion Van is rooted in collaboration. By bringing together NHS services, Public Health, local authorities, voluntary organisations and specialist teams, the programme demonstrates what can be achieved when organisations work towards a shared purpose.

As the service continues to grow, one thing is clear: healthcare does not always have to wait for people to come through the front door. Sometimes, the greatest impact comes from taking care into the heart of communities, building trust first and ensuring no one is left behind.