Active Norfolk has developed and embedded a strategic alliance with Public Health Norfolk, which underpins their significant role in the health sector across the county.
In 2008, the Director of Active Norfolk identified NHS Norfolk and Waveney as an organisation, which could play a significant role in achieving, shared outcomes through collaboration and integration. A jointly funded post was established, hosted by Active Norfolk, with responsibility for developing the physical activity offer.
After establishing trust and creditability Active Norfolk has moved to the position of strategic partner, rather than solely a deliverer of programmes on behalf of health partners. Most of Public Health Norfolk’s Physical Activity budget is now being delivered or commissioned by Active Norfolk. The CSPs annual income from health partners has grown by more than 500% since 2008, to £571,000 in 2015/2016. Public Health Norfolk have been a key partner in the formation and execution of two successful ‘Get Healthy, Get Active’ bids to Sport England, generating in excess of £1m of income for physical activity projects. This included the Fun and Fit Project.
Other recent collaborations, which highlight Active Norfolk's significant role in the health landscape include writing the Physical Activity Needs Assessment for Norfolk, on behalf of Public Health Norfolk, and working together to develop an interactive tool Active Map to help stakeholders inform physical activity interventions.
“The relationship between Active Norfolk and Norfolk Public Health is a prime example of how commissioners can work with CSPs to achieve the shared outcomes for those who do not achieve the recommended levels of activity, and those whose poor health and inactivity adversely affect each other. Active Norfolk have drive and enthusiasm, and have worked with Public Health and other partners to apply an evidence-based approach with local innovation. The success of Fun and Fit so far demonstrates how the right approach can make a difference to peoples’ attitudes and motivation to become more active.
Angela Fletton, Public Health Commissioning Manager, Norfolk County Council
The future of Active Norfolk within the health landscape will see the CSP playing an increasingly prominent role in the strategic commissioning of physical activity programmes to deliver health outcomes, whilst maintaining the ability to deliver high-quality projects and programmes