The Somerset VCFSE Collaborative have shared the findings of a survey exploring the voluntary sector's views on proposed NHS Integrated Care Board (ICB) boundary arrangements.
Facilitated by Spark Somerset, the Collaborative brings together senior leaders from voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCFSE) organisations across Somerset, creating opportunities to influence strategic decision-making and ensure the sector’s voice is heard.
Why the survey was carried out
NHS England has asked ICBs to submit their preferred long-term boundary arrangements as part of wider NHS reforms. Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire (BSW), Dorset and Somerset ICBs have proposed retaining their existing boundaries, suggesting this provides the greatest stability for patients, partners and the delivery of the NHS 10-Year Health Plan, whilst strengthening collaboration across neighbouring systems where needed.
Members of the Somerset VCFSE Collaborative were invited to share their views on the proposals, so the sector’s perspective could help inform the ICB’s final submission.
What did the survey find?
A total of 21 responses were received from voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCFSE) organisations. Overall, just over half (53%) supported retaining the current boundary arrangements, 43% were neutral and 5% opposed the proposal.
While responses reflected a range of views, several key themes emerged:
- Support for stability, with many organisations keen to avoid further NHS reorganisation and the disruption it could bring.
- A strong emphasis on Somerset’s rural identity, with calls for future arrangements to reflect the county’s unique challenges and communities.
- The importance of protecting local voice and place-based decision-making, ensuring that Somerset’s voice remains influential within any future arrangements.
- Recognition that natural geographies matter, highlighting the importance of ensuring boundaries align with existing population flows, service use patterns and local authority areas .
- A focus on patient experience rather than administrative boundaries, with an emphasis on continuity of care, equitable access and reducing postcode lotteries.
- A clear expectation that the VCFSE is seen a strategic partner, with continued involvement in shaping future health and care services.
To explore the findings in more detail, including the range of views expressed by respondents and recommendations for future partnership working, read the full report.
If you would like to discuss the report or have any questions about its findings, please get in touch. For further information about the Somerset VCFSE Collaborative and how to become a member, click here.
