Community Navigation service

What do we do?

Community navigators support people to access local health and wellbeing resources and services.

They meet people where they are in our communities, listen to their health-related issues and then support them to, for example, speak to their pharmacist about quitting smoking, direct them to their nearest Be Well leisure centre for free gym and swim sessions or get a blood pressure check at some Idea Store libraries.

Why is it important?

Community navigation is important because it helps connect residents with vital resources and services, supports their well-being, and empowers them to address challenges. By facilitating connections between individuals and local support systems, community navigators address barriers to accessing help, promote social inclusion, and build stronger, more resilient communities.

Here's a more detailed look at why community navigation is crucial:

• Addressing barriers: Community navigators help people who may struggle to find or understand services, such as those with limited English or little knowledge of available support.
• Connecting to services: They link individuals to a wide range of services, including health and social care, education, leisure activities, and support groups.
• Building relationships: Community navigators build trust and relationships with residents and service providers, fostering a sense of community and mutual support.
• Empowering individuals: They help people take charge of their lives and make informed decisions about their health and well-being.
• Improving wellbeing: By linking people to the right support and services, community navigation helps improve health, build social connections, and boost quality of life.
• Strengthening communities: Community navigation helps create stronger, more connected communities by encouraging people and organisations to work together

Staying healthy in Tower Hamlets

To help people stay healthy in Tower Hamlets, we are focusing on supporting them to stop smoking, maintain a healthy weight, drink less alcohol, manage their blood pressure and improve their mental health.

Find out more

For more information about Community Navigation and resources contact us by email:

navigators@towerhamlets.gov.uk