Listening, Learning and Lived Experience: Engagement at Nite Lite CIC

They attended the Middlesbrough Hub free stall, engaging with individuals accessing support on the day. As part of the session, they offered free blood pressure checks and created space for open conversations about experiences of health and social care services. They also used the opportunity to share information about lived experience groups across Middlesbrough and how people can get involved in shaping local systems and services.

Rising Challenges Within the Community

A strong and recurring theme was the growing challenge faced by people sleeping rough or living in insecure accommodation across Middlesbrough. Many individuals spoke about repeated hospital admissions and frequent contact with emergency healthcare services, often linked to long‑term health conditions that remain unmanaged outside of crisis points.

Several people reflected on how difficult it can be to break cycles of homelessness and ill health, particularly when everyday survival takes priority. There was a clear sense that pressures are increasing and that existing systems can feel difficult to navigate, reinforcing the importance of listening to lived experience and responding in ways that feel accessible and realistic.

Identifying Hidden Health Needs

The uptake of blood pressure checks was encouraging, with strong engagement throughout the session. Within a 40‑minute period

• 13 checks were completed.
• Only 2 readings were within a healthy range
• 6 slightly raised
• 5 within the high range.

Alongside the checks, people shared personal experiences of having their blood pressure taken only when admitted to hospital, often during repeated or emergency visits, rather than through routine or preventative care. For some, hospital admission had become the primary point of contact with healthcare services.

Participants were informed of their results and given appropriate guidance, with many encouraged to seek follow‑up support. However, conversations highlighted that not everyone was aware they could access healthcare support without being registered with a GP. Others shared concerns about digital systems, particularly appointment booking and communication methods, which can be a significant barrier if you do not have a phone, internet access or a stable place to live.

These insights reinforced the value of delivering health checks in community settings. For people facing multiple and overlapping barriers, accessible and informal opportunities like this can support early identification of health issues and reduce reliance on crisis services.