Set out your Communications & Engagement Strategy

A communication strategy – yes it may figure down your current list of priorities right now what with dealing with budgets and the demands of QIPP (Quality, Innovation, Productivity and Prevention).

That’s fine and well, though of course the government wants most CCGs to be authorised by next spring and there are several hoops to jump through before getting to that point.

That includes having a clear plan of how to engage with all those affected by the new changes.

From patients, to GP practices all the way to connecting with the media there is no denying that, just like hungry seagulls stealing your chips at the seaside, they want to be fed! Why I hear you cry why uncontrollably banging your head on the desk?

As NHS Calderdale so clearly and expertly set out in their Communications and Engagement Strategy: “If we do not effectively communicate our intentions and rationale, or manage our reputation, our credibility will be damaged and our ability to act will be restricted. “If we do not involve our stakeholders in a timely, meaningful and proportionate way, the services we commission will be less effective, plus we run the risk of challenge to our plans which is costly in terms of time, resource and reputation.”

If you haven’t got a clear strategy yet, not to worry. We had a feeling some readers might still be in deliberating mode especially with the some CSS communication services seeking an “alternative business model”. So before this article sends you running for the hills or crawling into the fetal position we thought we would show you some examples of how we are helping NHS bodies across the country.

eskimosoup has developed easy to use and informative websites for many Midlands based CCGs updating people about current changes and what they can expect as the reforms progress.

Not only this but we are working with a range of CCGs to develop communication strategies, internal engagement approaches, marketing campaigns, branding and digital communications.

Our previous PCT campaign work is not to be laughed at either. We have had huge successes with a number of hard-hitting and award winning campaigns targeting problems CCGs nationwide will look to be addressing. Meetings with boards have revealed issues like too many unnecessary A&E admissions or addressing healthy living.

One vibrant and positive campaign we currently work on is Leeds Let’s Change promoting healthy eating, physical activity, reduced alcohol consumption, smoking and weight management services.

Through the campaign healthy activities and events are promoted as well as providing groups and online guides they can use to change their lifestyles.

Working in partnership with the NHS we are not only improving lives but cutting down on long-term unnecessary health service costs putting us at the forefront of NHS communications.