The Health Agency

Safeguarding Services for Wester Hailes and South West Edinburgh

At The Health Agency, we are committed to supporting the wellbeing of our community. Every year, we help over 2,500 people across Wester Hailes and South West Edinburgh lead longer, healthier, more fulfilling lives. However, with the Edinburgh Integrated Joint Board’s (EIJB) grants programme set to end in June, our future—along with that of 63 other local charities—faces uncertainty.

But there is hope! This week, The City of Edinburgh Council will meet to set its 2025-26 budget, and a proposal is on the table to allocate at least £2 million to mitigate the impact of these funding cuts. This is a crucial opportunity to ensure that vital health and social care services continue to support those who need them most.

We are calling on local councillors to vote ‘YES’ on Thursday, 20 February. A positive outcome will safeguard services like ours, ensuring that we can continue to provide early intervention and preventative care—reducing pressure on the NHS and statutory services while improving the overall well-being of our community.

A huge thank you to our friends at The Edinburgh Reporter for highlighting our story. Their recent article and video showcase the invaluable work we do and the potential impact of these funding decisions on our community.

Long-term investment in community health is not just beneficial—it’s essential. Our dedicated team will continue to support those who rely on us, and we remain hopeful that the council will recognise the importance of funding organisations like The Health Agency.  

Together, we can secure a healthier future for everyone in Wester Hailes and South West Edinburgh. Let’s make sure our voices are heard, and our services are protected!  We’ll keep you updated!

Visit from the Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care to Wester Hailes Healthy Living Centre

The Health Agency was delighted to be part of the Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care, Neil Gray MSP’s visit to Wester Hailes Medical Practice on Thursday 06 February 25.  He spoke with a multidisciplinary team including local GP’s, practice nurse, mental health nurse, community link worker and The Health Agency to better understand the needs of the local residents in Wester Hailes.

This led to positive conversations about the importance of Health, Social Care and the third sector working together to combat the effects of deep poverty, inequality, physical and mental health issues, social isolation, and food insecurity experienced by our local community.  It emphasised the powerful impact that a partnership-led approach has on creating a healthier, stronger and more robust community – where local people can enjoy longer, healthier, more fulfilling lives.