In 2019, Above & Beyond became an independent charity and began to extend its support outside of Bristol’s city centre hospitals. The charity has chosen Bristol Health Partners (BHP) as its first delivery partner as part of this move to support the health of our citizens and keeping people out of hospital.

Three of BHP’s Health Integration Teams (HITs) will receive a total £30,000 in funding from Above & Beyond to help improve the health and quality of life of Bristol communities.

HITs are BHP’s pioneering approach to integrating research, health services and public health which involves patients and the public working together with the local health and care sectors.

The work of the HITs will focus on encouraging active healthy lifestyles amongst older people in some of the most deprived parts of Bristol, dementia care and improving care in self-harm.

The funds will help tackle some of Bristol’s health priorities by working in new ways, harnessing the best research, innovation, care and education to make a difference to people’s health and wellbeing.

Paul Kearney, Above & Beyond CEO, said:

These community-based projects will involve patients and members of the public in Bristol and have a direct impact on their health and wellbeing. The charity is keen to boost initiatives like these, to support a more joined up approach to patient care and prevention.

Lisa King, Chief Operating Officer for Bristol Health Partners, said: “We are thrilled and grateful to have the support of Above & Beyond. With their help, we will be able to continue our work in 2020 in supporting Bristol’s ageing population to become or stay active and improving care for people with dementia and for those who self-harm.”

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To donate and support the health of Bristol citizens, visit the Above & Beyond donation page.