Chris Morley (NHS Devon ICB) delivered the Neighbourhood Health Services report to the Board, and discussed:

a)     The purpose of Neighbourhood Health Services, which aimed to bring various health and social care services together in a more effective manner within communities;

b)    The focus of Neighbourhood Health Services, which aimed to improve health and well-being while reducing avoidable pressures on health and social care systems;

c)     The significance of partnerships between the NHS, local government, social care providers, and community organizations to support individuals and unpaid carers effectively;

d)    The Key Components of Neighbourhood Health Services were:

                         I.         Strategic Focus;

                       II.         Integration of services for complex needs;

                      III.         Prevention and early intervention;

                     IV.         Utilization of community assets;      

                      V.         Digital transformation;

                     VI.         Strong partnerships among stakeholders;    

                   VII.         Population health management.

e)     There were existing community assets in Plymouth, which could be leveraged to enhance the integration of services. It was important to build upon existing frameworks to develop a community-centric model of healthcare delivery;

f)      Delivery guidance for 2025/26 would focus on those with the most complex needs. This would target 7% of population nationally, focussing on cohorts with greatest potential to improve independence;

g)     A steering group had been established to develop a roadmap for the development and delivery of services across Devon;

h)     Neighbourhood health services formed part of the three NHS strategic shifts:

                         I.         From Acute to Community Care: Moving services closer to the community level to better meet local needs;

                       II.         Digital Transformation: Emphasizing the use of digital tools to enhance service delivery;

                      III.         Focus on Prevention: Transitioning from reactive to proactive health care strategies.

i)      A national implementation programme would be launched to support local areas to develop integrated health services. Plymouth could participate in the programme, which would provide additional resources for enhancing local health services.

In response to questions, the Board discussed:

j)      The introduction of Neighbourhood Health Services was without additional funding. The programme would prioritise the best utilisation of existing resources, assets and funding arrangements;

k)     Community Health and Wellbeing Hubs, and voluntary sector organisations provided crucial support, acting as gateways to services and community engagement;

l)      It was important to engage with the community to understand their needs and involve individuals in the development of services best suited to them;

The Board agreed to:

1.      Note the report;

2.     Continue local support and engagement in the development of Neighbourhood Health Services.