The report provides a snapshot of how the newly formed ICSs are enacting their duties for strategic planning as outlined in the Health and Care Act 2022.
This report recognises the good work that is developing in ICSs and where they are effectively reflecting the needs of babies, children and young people in their strategic planning.
It also highlights a number of areas where there is significant room for improvement, including co-production with children and young people, integration with education and children’s social care, and greater clarity on leadership and accountability.
We acknowledge this is the first year that ICSs have been required to publish a strategy and JFP, and that it will take time to get things right.
We hope this report will give national government a chance to reflect on where it might wish to offer greater support and guidance to ICSs, as well as an opportunity for ICSs to learn from each other and consider additional areas as they refresh their strategies and plans in the coming year.