People’s lives in Yorkshire and Humber would not be the same without the VCSE sector’s fundamental contribution to health and care.

Durham University has launched a new research report titled ‘Local health and social wellbeing: The contribution of the voluntary, community and social enterprise sector in Yorkshire and Humber’.

The research sets out the shape, size, and economic and social value of the voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector since the establishment of the National Health Service (NHS) 75 years ago. VCSE organisations and groups continue to be a key partner in delivering  health and care services and support.

Report highlights

• The extent to which VCSE organisations work together is stronger in Yorkshire and Humber than in all other English regions
• Despite significant challenges, the sector works closely with communities to continue to deliver innovative approaches which are personalised, local, inclusive and accessible
• There is an intrinsic value of the VCSE in tackling the wider determinants of health that can shape an individual’s life expectancy, lifelong health, and well-being, and minimise their need to access statutory health and care services
• The sector plays a significant role in delivering services and support around specific health conditions, prevention, mental health, and connecting with specific population groups who might otherwise not access health and care services.

Accessing the report

The full report is available to read here and key findings are summarised  here.

Take a look at the West Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership’s media release here.