In our recent community of practice meetings, there has been a growing view that the voice of general practice within the Bradford District and Craven health system can feel fragmented and does not always reflect the perspectives of many leaders and senior staff.
With over 50 individual GP practices and 12 Primary Care Networks across Bradford District and Craven, this is perhaps not surprising. However, previous attempts to establish a more unified voice or federation have not yet gained traction. In neighbouring Leeds, the Leeds GP Confederation has developed a strong and cohesive presence, offering a useful point of comparison.
This was brought into sharper focus during a recent community of practice discussion with local leaders, where it was noted that the VCSE sector, through the VCS Alliance, is often able to present a more consistent and unified voice within the Bradford District and Craven health system.
Encouragingly, proposed contract changes and the shift towards neighbourhood working highlight the importance of greater alignment across primary care, and there is increasing recognition of this across the system.
Some key points emerging from our discussions include:
-
While the future is uncertain, there is a shared view that primary care across Bradford District and Craven needs to work more closely together to sustain the strengths of local general practice. Without this, there is a risk that change happens around us rather than with us.
-
There is recognition of the need for a strengthened GP collaborative or federation model, which genuinely reflects the diversity of general practice across Bradford District and Craven, including both smaller practices and larger at-scale providers.
-
As a sector, we need to be clear about the value we bring and proactively contribute to system priorities.
-
There are opportunities to work more closely with VCSE partners, particularly at neighbourhood level, to design and deliver services that better meet local needs.
-
There is widespread recognition that the VCSE sector currently presents a strong and coordinated voice within the system, and there is learning for general practice in this.
There are significant opportunities ahead, alongside real risks. One of the greatest risks is that general practice does not engage collectively with the changes taking place. Responding proactively and working together will be key to shaping what comes next.
As reflected above, discussions have been open, honest and constructive. There is a clear appetite within the community of practice, representing many of the PCNs across Bradford District and Craven, to work with partners towards a more unified and influential voice for primary care within the health system.
The community of practice will continue to meet once a month – a peer learning network and a space to share learn and connect. For more details contact Bill Graham Bill.graham2@nhs.net
Bill Graham, Community and Innovation Lead Modality AWC & community of practice facilitator.