Providing accommodation to a local foodbank by repurposing a vacant property

This health centre is currently vacant, surplus to NHS requirements, and we have no way to exit the building until next year when we have an upcoming break option, at which point we can hand the property back to the landlord. This meant that NHS money was being spent on an unused property (rent and various running costs to keep the building secure), and that space within a community wasn’t being used to serve the public.

NHS Property Services (NHSPS) were approached by Middlesbrough Foodbank in May 2019, who enquired about the possibility of using our premises on a temporary basis whilst their existing premises undergoes some urgent structural repairs.

We sought approval from South Tees CCG, and have arranged for the foodbank to occupy the premises on a weekly basis until their existing premises is ready for occupation once more. With the help of Bevan Brittan, who provided us with a temporary events license on a pro bono basis, our Property and Facilities Management teams set up the accommodation for the Foodbank to occupy.

This shows the potential of how two different organisations can work together in order to make best use of a premises in order to assist and benefit the wider community. NHSPS have also since arranged an office collection for the foodbank, helping them to further serve those in need.