Case Study

Since its launch in January 2024, the Bury NeighbourHub has been offering a variety of support services to residents. It serves as a one-stop shop where the local community can access services from Monday to Friday. These services include support for physical health, mental health and wellbeing, employment needs, and digital access, delivered by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) in partnership with the Good Things Foundation. 

Located in the Mill Gate Shopping Centre, the Hub operates with a 'one team' approach, engaging various partners to reach a wider audience, including those who may not typically access mainstream employment, health, and skills services. The Hub is also registered as a Warm Space, offering a drop-in service for all Bury residents to find a safe and inclusive environment during the winter months. 

Ingeus is one of the partners at the Hub, delivering Working Well: Work and Health Programme and Pioneer. The programme offers employability support, working closely with the community to help upskill, train, and provide continued support once in work. 

Rebecca Kerr, Performance and Delivery Manager for Greater Manchester Working Well: Work and Health Programme reflects on the hub one year on:

“I've seen firsthand the enhanced support the Hub has enabled through its accessible, central location. The Hub has brought the community together and helped us support residents in achieving sustainable employment. Our regular collaboration with partner organisations at the Hub has further ensured that people receive the support they need, including for health, housing, and skills & training.” 

The Hub has fostered strong relationships between local organisations, including The Growth Company, Support to Succeed, Citizens Advice Bureau, Calico Housing, Bury Live Well, Bury Adult Learning, Bury Blind Society, and more. Simone Starr, Health and Employment Officer at Bury Council, comments on the benefits and positive impact these collaborations have on the local community:  

“The Bury Works Neighbourhub has been an outstanding example of best practice and partnership working. All the feedback we have had from partners and residents has been overwhelmingly positive. The Neighbourhub has resulted in referrals and connections that have really benefited our residents.” 

Andy Spensley, IPS Service Manager at The Growth Company echoed the benefits of the hub: 

“The hub has enabled Employment Specialists to provide a level of consistency for our client base, which is important when supporting clients with mental health conditions. Being able to engage other providers face to face has also meant we are able to signpost more effectively, ensure relationships are stronger and provide our clients with the support they need outside of employment.” 

Bury residents who have used the hub also commented: 

“I love it here, the staff are all friendly and helpful. They always make me a brew, offer me something to eat, and make sure I’m okay.”  

“It’s a great idea, everything under one roof, and everyone here actually wants to help you without judging.” 

 

In just over a year since opening, the Bury NeighbourHub has become a central source of help and support within the local community. The hub is open Monday to Friday 9am- 5pm. For more information, contact Site Manager, Amiee Muzyka at amuzyka@ingeus.co.uk.