Assura plc, the Warrington-based healthcare real estate investment trust (REIT), said on Thursday its portfolio of 576 properties yielded a rent roll up 6.4% at £108.9 million in the 12 months to March 31, 2020, and its portfolio value rose 8% to £2.139 billion.

Profit before tax slipped 6.1% to £78.9 million “reflecting higher net rental income following additions to the portfolio and lower positive valuation movement than prior year.”

Nonetheless, dividend per share will rise 3.8% to 2.75p.

Assura CEO Jonathan Murphy said: “With the outbreak of COVID-19, the importance of the NHS to our society has never been more apparent.

“Assura has worked closely with the NHS and our GP partners since the onset of the crisis, to make sure we can best support the health service while also focusing on the safety and wellbeing of our colleagues, occupiers and their patients.

“Assura has always been focused on fulfilling our purpose of creating outstanding spaces that best support the health services in all of our communities.

“Over the last financial year, we have assessed our strategy to see where we can make a greater contribution to society.

“Following this evaluation, we are placing our social performance at the heart of our strategy and launching a plan to make Assura the UK’s leading listed property business for long-term social impact …

“Assura has delivered another strong year, reflecting our predictable business model.

“Assura’s financial strength and market-leading capabilities position it well to continue its support of the NHS as primary care becomes increasingly integral to reducing pressure on Britain’s health service.”