Summary
The first Visit
The first visit to On Your Side was an impromptu visit aimed at understanding what the organisation was about. My colleague and I ended up in a small café, where we were introduced to Maryann Wareke, the founder of the organisation. She explained the mission and services provided by On Your Side, highlighting how the organisation supports not only immigrants—by helping to bridge language and cultural barriers—but also children, young people, and other vulnerable individuals.
The services offered include English tutoring for non-English-speaking immigrants, assistance with medical queries and navigating healthcare services (including GP access), a safe space for children to socialise and participate in activities, signposting vulnerable individuals to appropriate support services, and access to donated clothing. This first visit was truly eye-opening and highlighted what an amazing and welcoming space the organisation provides.
Dr Agboyinu is a Specialist GP Trainee based in East Norfolk Medical Practice on a Blended Learning Placement with its roots in Social Prescribing.
A Personal Journey into Community Care
When Dr Agboyinu first began this project, his focus was naturally on the systems and data that drive general practice. However, his experience quickly shifted from a clinical exercise into a deeply personal mission. By moving beyond the walls of the consulting room and into local spaces — like the library, football pitches, and community farm — he discovered that the real barriers to cancer screening aren't just logistical; they are rooted in fear, language gaps, and a lack of trust. GYUP's project wasn't just about ticking boxes for screening rates; it was about meeting people where they are and transforming cold "statistics" into warm human stories.
Read more: A Doctor’s experience of GYUP's Cancer Screening Program
There has been a lot of emphasis on the Cancer Screening, training Champions and holding events to raise awareness. But, what does Cancer Screening Champion Training involve?
I’ve been round the block a few times, and have, what I think, is a pretty good understanding of health issues, current treatments, and success rates. I’m sure a lot of you reading this will feel the same, especially if you are adult and have a life’s experience behind you. So, I wonder, if, like me, you enter into some courses, thinking, OK I understand what’s required – I’ve got this.
Making our Community Healthier and Happier
Hello to everyone - not just those in Great Yarmouth, but everywhere!
As we approach Christmas and the holidays, it is lovely to be able to share good news amidst all the tragedy around the world. Our message, in trying to help us all to stay healthy, is to make sure we all take up the screening opportunities, as often as possible, in order to prevent tragedy later on, and we are getting there:)
Well, here we are at Q3 (Quarter 3), after much intense activity from so many participants. 😊 Who knew we would have such an amazing response from our lovely community. It truly warms the cockles to know that folk are so kind, generous, and warm-hearted to lend a hand in promoting a process that could save lives. So far, our four amazingly talented trainers have trained thirty eight Cancer Screening Champions.
Take one brilliant event organiser (Trevor Saunders of Mandalay Wellbeing CIC), a football team with true heart (The Bloaters), a loyal crowd of community supporters, and a boost of funding from the Great Yarmouth & Northern Villages PCN and Gorleston PCN — and you’ve got the beginnings of something special.
Then cross your fingers for two weeks straight hoping the weather behaves… and somehow, it did. At least for the morning!
I wonder if you have noticed this: when you need help with something, just like I did this week and..... Well, firstly, let me give some context - having made some Cancer Screening videos in English, I wanted to reach our non-English speakers - how to do that?