How We Work
Despite the challenges, every sector in our region shares a desire to make a difference to people’s lives. Many people in the region also have innovative ideas that could make a huge difference to the lives of people in our region, and beyond. But they often also lack the time, knowledge and experience to make their idea happen and/or to robustly test its potential.
“I have learned so much from working with Ways to Wellness. Their staff are professional, enthusiastic and have a genuine ‘can do’ attitude. In addition to practical help with project planning and delivery, Ways to Wellness have coordinated project videos and managed an awareness-raising event and ‘family day’ for participants. Their support has been a major factor in the project’s success, opening doors for the next steps.”
Dr Anna Basu, Clinical Senior Lecturer at Newcastle University and Honorary Consultant Paediatric Neurologist
We believe the knowledge, skills and community connections of the voluntary sector can transform how health and care services benefit the people that need them most. Together we can transform how people access and use health and care services, to benefit them, reduce need and narrow health inequalities.
We primarily innovate in the North East and North Cumbria, which faces enormous health inequalities challenges. But we always consider the potential for wider application and working with partners further afield, both regionally and nationally.
Project Story: SPACE Pilot
Dr Anna Basu came up with the idea for a social prescribing project supporting her patients and their families at the Great North Children's Hospital (GNCH).
She'd evidenced the possible benefit with reports and academic papers, but needed support moving the idea forward so she approached Ways to Wellness.
Together we:
Mapped out an approach to pilot delivery, which Ways to Wellness would lead and Dr Basu would act as clinical/evaluation lead.
Developed successful funding bids for the Great North Children’s Hospital Foundation and the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), with match funding coming from Ways to Wellness and additional NIHR funding secured for a related evaluation project.
Prepared a full business case for the project which was shared to the experienced and well-networked Ways to Wellness Board.
Ways to Wellness organised the delivery of the pilot including:
Recruiting staff
Developing partnership agreements
Setting up honorary contracts
Creating promotional materials
