Practice makes perfect

The Central Worthing Partnership, in Rowlands Road, was officially opened by health officials last Tuesday afternoon, marking the end of months of planning.

Chief executive of the local health trust, Steve Pheonix said: "We were aware that some patients found it difficult to find a GP in central Worthing and it has been one of our priorities to open a new practice here for people.

"As a health care provider, ensuring GP services meet the needs of local people is paramount."

The 300,000 surgery is in the Worthing Community Partnership resource building, which will house several voluntary organisations.

Head of practice, doctor Sherief Kamar, said: "Our aim is to provide a high-quality, professional, up-to-date and efficient service to the central Worthing community.

"This is a very exciting time for our team. We are looking forward to getting the wheels in motion and registering new patients."

Dr Kamar is no stranger to the town and has been providing locum cover in Worthing, Findon, Lancing and Rustington for the past five years. Other members of the team include a practice manager who has managed other Worthing practices for the last four years, an experienced senior nurse who is qualified in chronic disease management, supported by health care assistants, and experienced reception and administration staff.

Jane Claxton, chairman of the Worthing Community Partnership, said: "The Worthing Community Partner-ship is delighted to see the opening of this new surgery, which is very much needed in this deprived area of Worthing.

"This is an excellent example of two different organisations working together to make a dream a reality."

After the opening ceremony, patients Jackie and Abdul-Hadi Khabbazeh from Goring were the first to be registered.