Edenbridge group is a breath of fresh air for Lillian and friends

“Keeping well in my own home, while getting out and about and making new friends has become so important to me since losing my dear husband John earlier this year”, is what Lillian Hamilton told us when we caught up with her at one of the regular get-togethers for older people at Edenbridge Memorial Health Centre (EMHC).

Lillian Hamilton in her garden at home

“Coming to my group at the centre is like a breath of fresh air. We chat, we laugh, we sing, and it keeps me busy and away from my memories for at least some of the day.”

Lillian, 87, a retired researcher, who lives in a hamlet just outside Edenbridge, was invited to the specialist wellbeing day centre at EMHC by our Frequent Service User Team, after finding herself making repeat trips to the doctor to treat her lymphoma, a painful and debilitating leg condition.

“I’ve got an amazing family and my sons and grandsons visit me often," added Lillian.

Now, Lillian comes to the group regularly. As well as socialising, members can discuss any health issues they have freely. Run by trained healthcare assistants, the team carries out monthly monitored health checks and often picks-up on any underlying clinical, social or emotional concerns.

As well as groups for people with long-term health conditions and older people who need support to better care for themselves, the centre also runs sessions for people living with dementia.