Case Study: Coventry Road Practice
The Background
Coventry Road Practice, located in Birmingham, serves a diverse patient list of 4,500 individuals, including residents from temporary accommodations, vulnerable groups such as homeless patients, and newcomers to the UK. Recognizing the pressing issue of period poverty within their community, the practice took proactive steps to provide essential support.
Action Taken
Coventry Road Practice, under the leadership of Chandni, a GP Partner, implemented a comprehensive strategy to launch their Period Poverty Project:
- Initiated discussions with Primary Care Network (PCN) members, receiving enthusiastic support and designating their practice as the central donation hub for 9 other practices in the network.
- Engaged their practice team in brainstorming innovative ideas, including contributions from male staff members, to ensure inclusivity and comprehensive support.
- Identified and trialled various locations within the practice before establishing a discreet yet accessible station near the reception area, monitored through CCTV for engagement.
- Fostered community partnerships, notably securing donations from a local supermarket and leveraging their community Facebook group to generate significant support and contributions.
- Formed a partnership with a local insurance firm, which facilitated additional donations through a dedicated office collection bin, providing over 200 products to Coventry Road Practice.
The Impact
The Period Poverty Project at Coventry Road Practice has yielded impactful outcomes:
- Strengthened unity and collaboration within the practice team and across the wider PCN network, fostering a shared commitment to community welfare.
- Enhanced accessibility to menstrual products for vulnerable groups, including homeless patients and newcomers to the UK, promoting dignity and well-being.
- Generated substantial community support and donations, highlighting the initiative’s resonance and effectiveness in addressing local needs.