by Emma Lee, Head of Engagement
Last week, I had the pleasure of attending the Integrated Care Partnership (ICP) meeting. This collaborative effort, initiated by the Integrated Care Board (ICB), BCP Council, and Dorset Council, beautifully showcases the strength of working together. The ICP aims to:
- Improving healthy life expectancy
- Supporting people to live fulfilling and independent lives for longer
- Improving people’s overall well-being
- Addressing health and wellbeing inequalities
It was great for CAN to be there and to have the opportunity to amplify the sector’s voice. Reconnecting with many familiar faces from across the system was a highlight, including a valuable discussion with Charlie Green, the VCS Assembly Chair, about how we hope to work together.
One of the key updates was the transition from an independent chair, Cecilia Bufton, who has been instrumental during the formation period, to a co-chair arrangement between the leaders of BCP Council and Dorset Council. This change marks a new chapter for the ICP, promising even greater synergy and shared leadership across the two councils.
Sam Crowe, Director of Public Health for Dorset, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, delivered an inspiring presentation on how population health strategies have successfully improved health outcomes for Dorset residents. His insights underscored the importance of data-driven approaches in public health.
Housing was another critical topic, with Andrew Billany, Corporate Director for Housing and Community Safety at Dorset Council, and Ben Tomlin, Head of Housing Options and Partnerships at BCP Council, discussing collaborative efforts through a housing roundtable. Their work highlights the importance of coordinated housing strategies in supporting community well-being.
Rebecca Davies from the Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership led a stimulating discussion on the Government’s White Paper, “Get Britain Working Again.” We explored various ways to support people across Dorset in returning to work, including the roles of volunteering and community support.
Karen Starkey, Director of Commissioning, Children’s Services at BCP Council, shared the positive impact of the Holiday Activity and Food Programme (HAF). This initiative has been crucial in improving children’s health and well-being by providing safe spaces and nutritious food during school holidays.
The meeting concluded with insights from the chairs of both Dorset Council and BCP Council’s Health and Wellbeing Boards. They highlighted the incredible work being done to collaborate with charities and community groups in a place-based manner. The emphasis on preventative measures and innovative ideas for future initiatives was particularly inspiring.
The ICP meeting was a wonderful opportunity to observe the dedication and collaborative spirit of everyone involved. I look forward to seeing how these efforts continue to grow and positively impact our community.
