Bromley-by-Bow Centre hailed 'inspiring' in NHS debate

AN East End health centre was branded an inspiration to the Government during a debate in the House of Lords. The Bromley-by-Bow Centre in St Leonard s Street was praised by parliamentary under secretary of state for health Geoffrey Howe during a dis

AN East End health centre was branded an "inspiration" to the Government during a debate in the House of Lords.

The Bromley-by-Bow Centre in St Leonard's Street was praised by parliamentary under secretary of state for health Geoffrey Howe during a discussion on primary care.

He insisted that GPs across the country should be following the same social enterprise model as the centre which offers 'holistic' care to residents by helping them to improve their health as well as learn new skills.

Speaking in the House of Lords, he said: "Based in one of the most deprived parts of the country, it has been an inspiration to many in Bow and it is an inspiration to this Government.

"The Bromley-by-Bow Centre and other social enterprises are transforming communities in a way that the state cannot."

The centre led by GP Sam Everington has attracted a host of political faces, with former Prime Minister Gordon Brown visiting during his election campaign and Andrew Lansley making his first speech there as health secretary last month.

Earl Howe also said that more cash should be given to GP commissioning groups in deprived areas.