Anchor institutions are often described as large organisations whose long-term sustainability is tied to the wellbeing of the populations they serve. These organisations are ‘rooted in place’ and have significant assets and resources which can be used to influence the health and wellbeing of their local community. By strategically and intentionally managing their resources and operations, anchor institutions can help address local social, economic and environmental priorities in order to reduce health inequalities.

In Lancashire and South Cumbria ICB we see our anchors responsibilities as twofold:

• We are an anchor institution in our own right, with the ability – and responsibility – to use our assets and resources to influence health and wellbeing of local populations, to address the wider determinants of health through our operations, and to focus on ways of working that help to reduce health inequalities.
• We also have a ‘convening’ role across Lancashire and South Cumbria, working with partners at place to develop strong, vibrant networks of anchor organisations to work together to deliver social value and support health and wellbeing, and to ensure learning and best practice is shared across our area.

Here are some of the ways the NHS can deliver their role as an anchor institution:

• Widening access to quality work: Being a good inclusive employer, paying people the real living wage and creating opportunities for local communities to develop skills and access jobs in health and care especially those experiencing inequalities.
• Purchasing for social benefit: Purchasing supplies and services from organisations that embed social value to make positive environmental, social and economic impacts.
• Using buildings and spaces to support communities: Widening access to community spaces, working with partners to support high-quality, affordable housing and supporting the local economy and regeneration.
• Reducing our environmental impact: Taking action to reduce carbon emissions and consumption, reduce waste and protect and enhance the natural environment.
• Working closely with communities and local partners: Collaborating with communities to help address local priorities, build on their energy and skills; and work with other anchors and partners to increase and scale impact.

We are currently working across the ICB to identify the best ways we can deliver social value and positive health and wellbeing impact through our day-to-day operations.

If you’d like to know more about health anchors work and approaches across the UK, there are some great resources on the Health Anchors Learning Network website here.