Foundation and NHS join forces to make healthcare more accessible

People in Sunderland will have easier access to NHS services thanks to an exciting new partnership between North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB) and Sunderland AFC's charity, the Foundation of Light.

The new link-up will see the Foundation promoting the benefits of the NHS App to supporters, learners and local residents, so people can access vital healthcare services more easily. This partnership was established by North of England Care System Support (NECS), as part of its work to support GP practices in the region with new digital initiatives.

The NHS App offers a simple, secure way for users to manage their healthcare, providing access to GP records, repeat prescriptions, booking appointments, messaging with healthcare providers and hospital services.

Now fans will see details of the app across the Foundation's Beacon of Light facility, in match programmes, as well as on the screens, scoreboards and in the Fan Zone at the Stadium of Light on matchdays. The Foundation, which works in communities across the city, will offer drop-in sessions with support from the NHS for anyone who needs a helping hand or has questions about the app.

Dr Mark Dornan, a North East GP and chief clinical information officer at the ICB, said: "We are proud to champion the NHS App together as it can make life much easier for patients. The Foundation does so much to support communities in Sunderland so it's fantastic to have their support.

"No one likes the 8am rush for an appointment, but at many practices, the app helps you avoid that and book online. It also makes it easy to see your health records and test results or order a repeat prescription in seconds.

"It's a chance to take more control of your health and wellbeing – and it helps the NHS work more efficiently too. So why not save yourself some hassle and download it from the app store or Google play today?

"We know that some people find technology tricky, so it's great that the Foundation is running sessions to make sure that everyone can benefit."

Across the UK, more than 32 million people already use the app. Last month, more than seven million patients used it to view their records, and five million to order repeat prescriptions. GP practices across England are already linked to the system, with over 100 hospital trusts now providing patient information through the app.

Jamie Wright, Managing Director, SAFC Foundation of Light, said: “We are delighted to partner with the ICB to support our local community in accessing vital healthcare services. Many of the people we work with can benefit from the convenience and efficiency of the NHS App, and we are committed to helping spread the word.

"With a shared commitment to community well-being, this collaboration is a natural step in enhancing healthcare accessibility and education."

The partners hope to ensure that more people, particularly those who may face barriers to accessing healthcare, are aware of the app and how they can improve healthcare. The promotional campaign is scheduled to run through to the climax of Sunderland's promotion campaign and the first half of next season.

The app is free to download from Google Play or the Apple app store. For more information, you can also visit www.nhs.uk.