The Independent National Whistleblowing Officer (INWO) has upheld multiple complaints related to the closure of the Hunter Street Health service, a dedicated primary care practice that had long been regarded as a lifeline for the city’s homeless population.

Shut down in March 2023 as part of wider service restructuring by Glasgow City Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP), the specialist service provided coordinated medical support alongside outreach and referrals to housing and social services.

The whistleblowing investigation found that HSCP made the decision “in haste,” without meaningful consultation with frontline staff, service users, or community stakeholders. The report also highlighted a failure to carry out an equality impact assessment or to assess the long-term consequences of withdrawing such a specialist provision, particularly in light of increasing homelessness and complex health needs among this group.

Housing professionals and community support providers have expressed concern that the decision undermines efforts to deliver integrated, person-centred services. “This wasn’t just a GP practice—it was part of a broader ecosystem that supported some of Glasgow’s most vulnerable residents,” one housing support worker told healthandcare.scot.

The Scottish Deep End Group, representing GPs working in deprived communities, welcomed the report’s findings. In a statement, they called for the reinstatement of the service and stressed the importance of understanding and meeting the specific healthcare needs of people experiencing homelessness.

“We believe reinstating specialist general practice is essential to ensuring flexible, inclusive and tailored healthcare, particularly for those whose housing instability directly affects their health outcomes,” the group told healthandcare.scot.

The report not only criticises the decision-making process but also NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde’s internal handling of whistleblowing concerns. The INWO stated that the board failed to identify critical flaws in the HSCP’s approach, highlighting the need for greater staff training and awareness around service change responsibilities.

The investigation paints a picture of a rushed and poorly communicated decision, with one of three planned staff workshops reportedly held after the closure decision had effectively been made. A week before shutdown, the report says, neither staff nor patients had been properly informed.

In response, Glasgow City HSCP acknowledged the report and committed to reviewing its recommendations. “We note the findings and, as a continuous learning and improving organisation, will take time to consider the recommendations,” a spokesperson said. “We continue to develop services for those impacted by homelessness despite increased demand and a challenging financial climate.”

The INWO will monitor the HSCP’s progress on implementing its recommendations, with formal reviews scheduled for June and October 2025.