Here we talk about our ambition to build strong neighbourhood teams in line with the Government’s 10-Year Health Plan and what this means for your care and your health …
Across Kent, something remarkable is happening. Health and care services are coming together in new ways – breaking down barriers, sharing information and working as one team to support people in their communities. This is the heart of our integrated neighbourhood teams (INTs) approach and it’s already changing lives.
This transformation is part of a bigger national ambition. The Government’s 10-Year Health Plan sets out a bold vision: to create neighbourhood health centres in every community, delivering joined-up, person-centred care that’s proactive, not reactive. As part of this, 42 pilot sites across England will be selected to lead the way through the National Neighbourhood Health Implementation Programme (NNHIP).
As part of our health and care partnerships, we’ve applied to be included in the national pilot sites. Whether we’re selected or not, our commitment remains the same: we will do this anyway. Because it’s the right thing to do.
Why neighbourhood teams matter
Right now, many people experience care that’s doesn’t always work together. You might see your GP, then get referred to hospital, then speak to a social worker or mental health nurse – but they may not talk to each other. You repeat your story, wait for appointments and travel between services. It’s confusing, frustrating and exhausting – especially if you’re older, have long-term conditions, or need support from more than one service.
Neighbourhood teams change that. They bring services together locally – GPs, nurses, social workers, mental health professionals, voluntary organisations – all working as one team, with shared information and shared goals.
Real examples from Kent and Medway’s Neighbourhood Teams
We’re not starting from scratch. Across the county, we’re already seeing the power of this approach in action. There are many to name, but here’s just a few….
Case studies
Neighbourhood care helps Carol and Tony stay at home
Why we believe this approach works
This isn’t just about reacting to illness – it’s about helping people stay well:
- Spotting problems early: Smart tools and shared records help teams identify risks before they become emergencies.
- Supporting people at home: Remote monitoring and home visits mean fewer hospital trips.
- Reducing stress: Joined-up care means fewer forms, fewer delays and less repetition.
- Improving outcomes: Patients feel more confident, stay healthier, and spend more time at home.
So, what next?
We’ll continue expanding our neighbourhood team model across Kent and Medway. We’ll listen, learn, and adapt. We’ll build on what works and fix what doesn’t. We’ll keep working with our partners – and most importantly, with the people we serve.
This won’t be easy. It requires trust, collaboration and a willingness to do things differently. But the prize is worth it: healthier communities, reduced inequalities, and a system that works better for everyone.
Join us on the journey
Whether you’re a clinician, a volunteer or someone who uses our services – you have a role to play. Together, we can build a system that’s more compassionate, more connected and more human.
Let’s make it happen – one neighbourhood at a time.