New NHS and social care system 'has power to completely transform health and care'

From blood pressure checks in betting shops to diabetes and weight management support in local sports clubs - these are just some of the initiatives being delivered by a new integrated care system.

Forty-two Integrated Care Systems (ICSs) across England have been put on a statutory footing with Clinical Commissioning Groups being abolished and their commissioning powers transferred to the new bodies.

NHS England says the ICS will bring a more joined-up working system which will include GP teams, hospitals, local authorities and other partners to plan and deliver services tailored to the needs of their communities.

Amanda Pritchard, NHS chief executive, said: “Integrated care systems have the power to truly transform the way we care for people up and down the country – not only will the NHS provide care when someone is unwell or has an accident but alongside our local government partners, we must also now play an increasing key role in managing people's health so that we can catch more killer conditions earlier and save lives.”

A GP practice in Stockport is already going into betting shops to deliver blood pressure checks and in Coventry and North Warwickshire, a local sports club offers diabetes and weight management support. People can receive tailored one to one diet and lifestyle support, and access to the club’s gym facilities.

Ms Pritchard added: “Through these schemes, we are already making a massive difference to peoples’ lives. The NHS will now build on this success and innovation and deliver care for patients that is fit for the future as well as saving taxpayers millions of pounds each year.”

'We hope these new systems will prove successful in integrating health and social care services'

To help social care providers, the National Care Forum (NCF) has created a range of dedicated resources and information to help social care providers understand, navigate and improve the integration between health and social care.

Professor Vic Rayner chief executive of the NCF said: “Social care providers, especially not for profit providers, are deeply rooted in their local communities.

“They bring hugely valuable expertise in meeting the current and future needs of their wider communities, as well as deep insight and understanding of the people and communities they service.”

Care England has also welcomed the new ICS system but warns for integration to succeed, the adult social care providers “must have their voices heard at every level.”

Professor Martin Green, chief executive of Care England, said: “We hope these new systems will prove successful in integrating health and social care services and creating a joined-up approach to the delivery of care.

“We encourage all system leaders to reach out to all local care providers and outline how they can be involved in improving the health and well-being of local people and their communities.”

Professor Rayner added: “It's essential social care providers play a central role, alongside other local partners, in the shaping and delivery of health and social care services through the ICS framework.

“Their knowledge and expertise will ensure that together with their partners they can tackle the deep-rooted health inequalities and improve the health and wellbeing of people who live and work in their area.”

To find out more about the resources available on Integrated Care Systems, go to https://www.nationalcareforum.org.uk/integrated-care-systems/ics-explained/