About the ICS Network
As the only independent network for integrated care systems we are proud to support our members with their work to improve and learn from each other, while also giving them a voice to influence and represent integrated working nationally.
Influencing
We provide an independent national voice for ICSs through the media, national events and our engagement with ministers and other national decision-makers. We make a positive case in support of system-working, demonstrating the difference integration makes and how it can lead to better outcomes for the population ICSs serve.
We deliver a comprehensive influencing programme covering key issues such as system finance, regulation, dentistry, the national operating framework and workforce. We maintain a close relationship with our ICS members ensuring that our influencing work reflects the diverse nature and experience of every system across the country.
We influence national debate on behalf of members through our parliamentary engagement, including ministerial and opposition meetings, briefings, roundtables and committee appearances, to influence key decision-makers.
We have constructive working relationships with national bodies such as the Department of Health and Social Care, NHS England and the Care Quality Commission, as well as through our partnership arrangements with organisations such as the LGA, the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services, National Voices and NAVCA.
We ensure members are kept updated on news and announcements via our website, our fortnightly ICS Leaders Bulletin and instant updates through our digital communities and on social media, which we use to share intelligence and seek real-time member feedback to support our influencing activities. We regularly publish blogs and reports on key topics of interest including capital spending and system improvement.
“The opportunity to collaborate with others, the opportunities to network, the opportunity to influence national policy and get your voice heard.”
Rob Webster, Chief Executive, West Yorkshire and Harrogate Partnership
Improvement
We work in partnership with the Health Foundation and Q Community to deliver a new programme of peer learning for ICS leaders, focussing on system improvement. The partnership brings the improvement expertise of the Health Foundation and the networks and relationships of the NHS Confederation together with Q’s membership community of over 5,000 people, collaborating to improve the safety and quality of care. We are co-designing, co-delivering and building capacity alongside health and care systems at every stage so they can be self-sustaining.
We provide a wide range of engagement opportunities throughout the year to support peer learning for systems. These include our regular forums for ICB chairs and chief executives, ICP chairs and ICB non-executive directors, alongside our thematic work programme.
We provide opportunities for ICSs to share improvement ideas, insights and best practice with peers, including our regular network meetings, national conference and webinar programme. We host peer-led workshops, such as those we deliver in partnership with the LGA and NHS Providers, supporting ICS leaders in developing their systems and to learn from each other.
Our network forums include opportunities for individuals leading on specialisms including finance, communications and engagement, primary care, digital and chief nurses, to collaborate and network by providing a space to share best practice and influence national thinking.
We work on thematic areas identified as priorities by our members, providing thought leadership and practical support. Topics include system improvement, place-based working, workforce, health and care inequalities, and digital and innovation. We work with a diverse range of external partners to ensure that ICSs benefit from a broad pool of relevant expertise and experience.
Our popular Spotlight series provides an opportunity for peer-to-peer learning among senior ICS leaders and engagement with experts in specific fields of interest. We regularly share good practice by producing and disseminating case studies and other resources which demonstrate how integrated care really makes a difference.
