PLANS have been confirmed for the phased re-opening of ‘What Matters Hubs’ drop-in sessions.
The aim is to have weekly clinics available in Peebles, Hawick, Galashiels, Duns, Kelso and Eyemouth by the end of September.
They have been unavailable during the COVID-19 pandemic with advice on health and social care services being provided through multi-agency Community Assistance Hubs.
The first to open is Hawick with drop-in sessions and appointments now available every Thursday from noon-3pm within the Live Borders Heart of Hawick venue.
Anyone attending will be asked to wear a face mask, use the hand sanitiser provided, observe social distancing and provide contact details in line with Test and Protect requirements
A one-way system will be in operation and people may be asked to sit in a waiting area until staff are available to see them.
People are asked not to attend if they, a family member or close contact has any COVID-19 symptoms or has recently tested positive for the virus
Councillor Tom Weatherston, executive member for adult wellbeing said: “The Community Assistance Hubs continue to provide an absolutely vital service for people needing support and anyone looking for advice shouldn’t hesitate to get in touch to see what is available.
“There is no doubt, however, that some people miss being able to have a face to face conversation and it is very welcome news that we are going to be able to provide What Matters Hub drop-in sessions once again. They are an ideal way of talking to professionals in a relaxed, informal way and provide guidance on a range of issues and topics ranging from health and social care services to information about community activities and events that people may find of interest.
“The past year or so has impacted significantly on people’s health and wellbeing in previously unimagined ways and I would therefore encourage people to make full use of the Hawick sessions that are now available every Thursday.”
Lisa Denham, connected and creative communities manager at Live Borders added: “We are delighted to welcome back the What Matters Hub to our relaxed and informal surroundings at Heart of Hawick. We understand and value the need for community led support, enabling people to become healthier, happier and stronger and find the services that they need locally. Health and well-being is a key driver across all our services and the return of the Hub at Heart of Hawick is a great step forward in our phased reopening.”