Testing phase complete in health inequalities project for ICSs

In February, we announced our work with CQC and the Point of Care Foundation on a project funded by the Regulators’ Pioneer Fund. This project aims to develop an improvement framework for Integrated Care Systems (ICSs) to understand how well their engagement with people and communities is helping to reduce health inequalities. In September, we announced four ICSs had volunteered to test our draft framework.

We are now pleased to report that the testing phase of the framework has been completed, marking an important milestone in the project’s journey.

From September to November, the draft framework was tested in partnership with four ICSs. These were Black Country ICS, Gloucestershire ICS, Hampshire and Isle of Wight ICS and Nottingham and Nottinghamshire ICS.

These ICSs were chosen for their diverse demographics, geography, and levels of experience in addressing health inequalities.

Testing focused on understanding how the framework fits into existing ICS health inequality processes and identifying areas where the framework could help assess the impact of their engagement strategies on health inequalities.

Each ICS provided detailed feedback on the framework’s usability, relevance, and potential impact. This feedback has been instrumental in shaping the final version of the framework.

What we learned

The testing phase highlighted key opportunities to improve the framework to better meet the needs of ICSs. For example:

• Flexibility: ICSs appreciated the framework’s adaptable structure, allowing them to focus on areas most relevant to their unique contexts.
• Guidance: ICSs highlighted the need for clearer guidance and examples to support implementation.
• Impact Measurement: Feedback emphasised the importance of ensuring the framework helps ICSs measure the tangible outcomes of their engagement efforts on reducing health inequalities.
• Resourcing: Integrating the framework with existing population health outcomes framework has proven useful in managing resource limitations while still tracking impact.

We are currently incorporating the feedback to ensure the framework is practical and has a real impact on people and communities experiencing health inequalities.

Framework launch

The framework and accompanying guidance will launch as part of a dedicated virtual event on 12 February 2025. The event is set to bring together ICS leaders, stakeholders, and partners to explore the framework’s practical application and its role in tackling health inequalities.

For questions or more information about the launch event, please contact icshealthinequalities@cqc.org.uk.

Jacob Lant, Chief Executive of National Voices said:

We are excited to share the progress from this important piece of work with CQC and the Point of Care Foundation, and would like to take this opportunity to express our thanks to the Regulators Pioneer Fund for their investment.

This project has demonstrated what true co-production looks like, with both people and the voluntary sector. It has been both rewarding and heartening to see the level of buy-in from systems, as their feedback has been taken on board to further strengthen and shape the framework.

Our collaborative approach will result in a tool that works well for people, voluntary organisations and ICSs and that it will go forward to drive a much-needed improvement in health inequalities.

Sarah Massie, Director of Programmes at the Point of Care Foundation, said:

We are very grateful to the ICSs and everyone who contributed to the workshops during this testing phase. The feedback provided has been invaluable in ensuring the framework is as accessible and effective as possible. It has been inspiring to witness the enthusiasm for the framework and its potential to reduce health inequalities. We’re pleased to hear ICSs’ have found the framework helpful for reflecting on what they are doing well and identifying areas for development.

It is our hope this project will help develop truly inclusive and compassionate services by working directly with communities. As we look forward to the launch next year, we remain committed to supporting meaningful progress in this work.

Chris Day, Director of Engagement at CQC, said:

I am pleased to hear the positive feedback from the four ICSs who participated in the testing phase. Incorporating their perspectives has helped strengthen the framework, ensuring it better supports ICSs in measuring the impact of their engagement efforts on reducing health inequalities. Throughout the testing phase, a wide range of stakeholders and people with lived experience have continued to provide valuable insights and feedback.

The framework is designed to integrate seamlessly with existing population health strategies, enabling ICSs to better understand how people access and experience care. It also provides a foundation for using this understanding to improve outcomes and reduce health inequalities. This focus aligns with what truly matters to people accessing and using services.

To learn more about the testing phase and the upcoming launch event, visit CQC’s website.