Big Innovation Conversation: The NHS as an anchor institution

Anchor institutions are described as those which have a significant stake in the local economy; they are publicly funded and have a responsibility to meet certain standards. Becoming an anchor institution includes widening access to high quality jobs for communities furthest from the labour market; procuring goods and services locally and from organisations that provide greater community benefit; environmental sustainability; making the most of estates; and working more effectively as a partner across a place.

An excellent report from the Health Foundation describes anchor institutions and argues that more can be done to support and challenge the NHS to embrace its role as an anchor institution and maximise the social and economic value it brings to local communities.

Sarah Reed of the Health Foundation, was our webinar key speaker along with Ian Stenton, Head of Sustainability at the Royal Liverpool and Broadgreen University Hospitals NHS Trust, where work is ongoing to become an anchor institution.

To listen to the recording, please go here. (password: QvgZYDS4)