Today (23 February) we are pleased to launch the ‘Accelerating Estate Solutions for Neighbourhood Health Centre Delivery’ report produced in partnership with the NHS Confederation. The report draws on insights from system leaders across the country and features a series of case studies showcasing successful approaches to optimising the NHS estate. It highlights the need for stronger strategic alignment between service redesign and estate planning, supported by flexible funding models and robust local partnerships, all essential to unlocking the full potential of neighbourhood-based care.
This report comes at a critical moment. The Government has set out an ambitious vision to deliver neighbourhood health, underpinned by a programme of new Neighbourhood Health Centres (NHCs). While some NHCs will be newly built, delivered through a mix of primary care and emerging public private partnership models, the fastest and most effective way to meet the commitment of making 120 Centres operational by 2030 is by maximising the existing NHS estate.
Community Health Partnerships (CHP) is already putting this vision into action. The NHS LIFT estate provides modern, flexible, community-based environments that support integrated neighbourhood care and was established to improve access in underserved neighbourhoods. Nearly nine in ten LIFT projects are located in areas with above average health needs, ensuring that buildings are placed where they can have the greatest impact.
LIFT facilities already bring together GP services, diagnostics, mental health support, social care, and voluntary sector partners under one roof – the type of multidisciplinary, prevention focused, community rooted care model envisioned for the NHC programme.
Through our partnership with the NHS Confederation, we have engaged extensively with members across the health system to share solutions to common challenges, highlighting examples of innovation, and scalable estate solutions that can accelerate the delivery of Neighbourhood Health Centres. This insight has directly shaped the report we are launching today.
It’s good to see momentum building in the delivery of neighbourhood health centres. Accelerating delivery through the use of existing buildings, such as the NHS LIFT estate, is crucial. The report highlights key factors such as collaborative working, data driven decision making, a targeted approach to space utilisation and the need for cultural alignment as important to unlocking estate solutions successfully. This report shares lessons learnt and insight from across the NHS which I hope will help others overcome similar challenges and make neighbourhood health centres a reality at pace
Accelerating Estate Solutions for Neighbourhood Health Centre Delivery’ report (PDF)
The report draws on insights from NHS system leaders across the country and features a series of case studies showcasing successful approaches to optimising the NHS estate.
Read more now: Accelerating estate solutions for neighbourhood health centre delivery | NHS Confederation
Read more Insights from CHP
Read more about our insights on core asset optimisation, place-based care and how CHP supports sustainable NHS infrastructure to enable care for patients closer to home in their local neighbourhoods.
