Avanti hosts: Healthy Communities Knowledge Sharing Session

Avanti Architects were delighted to host Collective Works for a knowledge exchange session and discussion focussing on best practice and future directions for community health.

In this joint CPD session Collective Works presented a series of innovative projects providing Social Prescribing services to local communities – i.e. supporting mental and physical health through a range of supportive therapeutic, social and physical activities that can improve outcomes as an alternative or as a compliment to standard healthcare interventions. Collective Works’ projects form part of an NHS pilot scheme retrofitting under-used spaces through sensitive use of material and colour as well as the transformation of outdoor spaces. Collective Works have also developed a new prototype for improving Quiet Room facilities across NHS estates, providing a more humane environment for respite, privacy and rest.

Avanti followed on with sharing our experience in developing health and wellbeing centres across the UK. These include innovative co-location strategies to create community hubs, such as the Grove Wellbeing Centre in Belfast which combines GP and outpatient clinics with a fitness centre, swimming pool, and library. Other themes explored included flexibility and resilience—creating buildings that adapt to changing needs—sustainability, and the use of biophilic design and natural landscapes to enhance wellbeing.

The UK urgently requires a renewed drive in local health infrastructure, with innovative retrofitting and a broad-based strategy linking specialist health and community resources to build socially sustainable and healthy communities.

Please see Collective Works website if you would like any further information on their Social Prescribing projects:

NHS Social Prescribing Wellington Way

NHS Social Prescribing Liverpool

The Quiet room North Middlesex Hospital