Examples of where we have made a difference
Prevention is about helping people stay well for longer and getting support in place early, before problems become more serious. Our focus is on helping people to:
- stay well and independent for as long as possible
- recover more quickly after illness or hospital stays
- access the right support before needs escalate.
The examples below show some of the ways we are putting prevention into practice. They highlight how we are working earlier, joining up support, and creating more local options so people can stay well, recover more quickly and remain independent for longer.
Community Catalysts
Through our partnership with Community Catalysts, we are helping grow small, local care and support options across Gloucestershire. This gives people more choice and control, supports independence at home, and helps fill gaps where local support can be harder to find.
The programme supports local people to set up small, sustainable care and support businesses that can help older and disabled people in their own homes. It also helps people who pay for their own care, or use direct payments, find more flexible local options that work for them.
We have invested £170,000 to grow these small local businesses and strengthen local capacity. The programme also improves access to information through an online directory and offers practical support such as coaching, mentoring, business advice and local networking opportunities.
Find out more about Community Catalysts
Care Navigators
Care Navigators help people and families get the right advice and support at the right time, especially when someone is in hospital or getting ready to leave hospital. They reduce confusion, avoid unnecessary hand-offs, and help people understand their options so they can make informed decisions about care and support.
They work closely with health, social care and community services to join up support quickly. This includes helping people understand housing, benefits, financial options and local care choices, and linking them to the right teams and organisations. They also support people who pay for their own care to explore local options and avoid delays.
Feedback shows Care Navigators make a real difference. They help reduce pressure on families, provide practical and compassionate support at stressful times, and support safer, smoother discharge from hospital. People and professionals describe them as responsive, helpful and focused on what matters most to the person.