Hackney is pioneering innovative approaches to support its homeless population through initiatives like the 'Brunch Bunch,' a collaborative project highlighted at the Hackney Council Health and Wellbeing Board meeting on Thursday, June 26, 2025.
The Brunch Bunch, a peer-led initiative partnering with STEPS (Supporting Transitions and Empowering People Service), focuses on co-producing solutions and providing essential resources to individuals facing homelessness, mental health challenges, substance use issues, and involvement with the criminal justice system. The project's winter 2024 activities included a co-designed winter flyer, monthly street stalls offering warm clothing and toiletries, and a Christmas event providing food, support, and a festive atmosphere.
Beyond the Brunch Bunch, the Health and Wellbeing Board also addressed broader issues including vaping, health equity, and substance use support. Professor Ann McNeill from King's College London presented updated evidence on vaping, emphasizing its potential as a harm reduction tool for smokers while cautioning against its use by non-smokers, particularly young people. The board also discussed the City and Hackney Tobacco Control Alliance's (TCA) position statement on vaping, reinforcing the message: if you don't smoke, don't vape.
The eMbedding heAlth equiTy in City & Hackney (MATCH) programme was also reviewed. This program aims to reduce inequalities across City & Hackney through initiatives focusing on anti-racist commissioning, food poverty, maternity services, cardiovascular disease prevention, and women's health. The board considered the proposed plan for Year 3 of the programme, focusing on sustainability and wider implementation of the MATCH approach.
The meeting underscored Hackney's commitment to addressing complex health and social challenges through innovative, community-driven solutions and evidence-based strategies. More information can be found on the Hackney Council Health and Wellbeing Board meeting page.