Shropshire Selected for National Neighbourhood Health Implementation Programme to Deliver More Care Closer to Home

Thousands of people across Shropshire are set to benefit from more joined-up, community-based care, as the area is confirmed among 43 areas in England to join the first wave of the Government’s National Neighbourhood Health Implementation Programme (NNHIP). 

In August, NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin, in partnership with local authorities, GPs, NHS Trusts and the Voluntary and Community Sector, submitted two bids to the programme, aimed at enhancing health and wellbeing services in both Shropshire and Telford and Wrekin. Following an announcement that the Shropshire bid has been successful, work begins on developing the first wave of neighbourhood health teams in the county. 

With expert coaching and input from subject specialists, the national programme will accelerate efforts to deliver joined-up care through neighbourhood health teams made up of community nurses, hospital doctors, social care workers, pharmacists, dentists, optometrists, paramedics, social prescribers and voluntary sector professionals. These teams will support people where they live, making it easier to access the right care at the right time, particularly for those with long-term conditions or complex needs. 

The programme will build on the strong foundations already in place, including Shropshire Council’s targeted work to reduce fuel poverty, support rural communities, and help young people not in education, employment or training. It will also strengthen and expand the work of Shropshire’s network of community and family hubs, which offer services like early help for families including health visitor clinics, support to stop smoking, youth drop-ins, SEND services, women’s health and services for older adults. 

Although the Telford and Wrekin bid was not selected at this stage, the strong partnerships built through the process will continue to support the local ambition to help people stay well and thrive in their neighbourhoods. 

Dr Lorna Clarson, Chief Medical Officer at NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin (NHS STW) said:

“Neighbourhood health is absolutely pivotal to the future direction of NHS services, wrapping care around our residents and helping people to stay well for longer.  Shropshire’s strong foundations in this area mean we are well placed to join the first wave of the NNHIP, whilst Telford and Wrekin will continue the excellent work already underway, benefiting from the learning that will be shared across our whole system.” 

Bernie Bentick, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet Member with responsibility for public health said: 

“Neighbourhood Health Services are fundamental in delivery of the Government’s 10-Year Plan for Health in England. We are delighted to be at the forefront of these developments for the benefit of the people of Shropshire, particularly those with greatest need.” 

You can read more about the Government’s 10 year health plan for England here: 10 Year Health Plan for England: fit for the future - GOV.UK