Support from the national level
- 80% of respondents outlined the need for both access to targeted capital investment for community providers, and the ability to explore alternative sources of capital investment.
- 70% of respondents stated that they need a longer-term strategy for optimising how existing NHS estate is used, while 50% want to see an increase in DHSC's CDEL.
Support from the system level
- Over 80% of respondents were clear about the need for appropriate prioritisation of community services within system-level planning, closely followed by the formulation of a longer-term estate strategy.
- Alongside this, better connectivity and collaboration with partners (such as co-location with primary care and/or local authorities) were also well supported. Given the government's pledge to develop neighbourhood health centres, empowering organisations to work together under the same roof will be essential to this vision.
The forthcoming 2025 multi-year Spending Review provides an opportunity to make these necessary reforms and begin the process of bringing care closer home. The Community Network is committed to working with the government to identify how the sector can improve both its productivity and the quality of the care it provides.