This Groundbreaking Healthcare Model Could Change Lives in Cornwall – Here’s How

Community-based teams are quietly transforming how people access care in the county

Cornwall is now leading the way nationally with the highest number of Community Health and Wellbeing Workers (CHWWs) in the country, thanks to a unique partnership between the NHS and the voluntary sector.

With nearly 60 CHWWs already embedded across nine areas of Cornwall, around 600 individuals from 530 households are now receiving one-on-one support tailored to their specific needs—whether it’s housing advice, help navigating NHS services, or simply someone to talk to.

“This is a groundbreaking [programme] that puts people at the heart of their own care,” said Kate Shields, Chief Executive of NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Integrated Care Board.

Tackling Local Health Inequalities

The CHWW model was designed to reduce the stark health inequalities affecting many parts of the county. Teams are based in communities that historically see lower uptake of cancer screenings and vaccinations, and where long-term health issues and financial hardship are widespread.

By recruiting people from the areas they work in, CHWWs are building trust and offering support in a way traditional services have often struggled to do.

“Emerging findings… are showing marked improvements in local people’s wellbeing,” said John Govett, Chair of NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Integrated Care Board. “An example… comes from those individuals supported often not needing to attend A&E or require further mental health support, which also reduces the pressure on our hospitals and NHS staff.”

📷CHWW logo.

Inspired by International Success

The national model was developed by the National Association of Primary Care (NAPC) and is based on Brazil’s 30-year-old family health strategy, which provides support to 70% of its population.

The Cornwall programme is already being looked at as a model for the rest of the UK, with its community-based teams supporting everything from medical navigation to help with the cost of living.

“The impact Community Health and Wellbeing Workers are having in our communities is amazing!” said Julie Pollard, Operational Team Manager at Volunteer Cornwall. “Our skilled and passionate teams are making a huge difference to residents’ lives.”

Building a Healthier, More Connected Cornwall

From local GP practices to grassroots community groups, CHWWs are now playing a key role in Cornwall’s Integrated Neighbourhood Teams. Their work is yielding measurable benefits, with early findings showing better health outcomes and more equitable access to care.

The CHWWs also organise bespoke community activities to promote health and prevent illness, while receiving continuous training in coaching, wellbeing, and understanding the NHS system.

“Thanks to innovative recruitment campaigns, we’ve attracted a high level of interest in these roles,” said Donna Rowe, Central Cornwall Integrated Care Area development manager. “We are incredibly proud of our CHWWs and the entire team who have worked tirelessly to recruit, train, and support these local heroes.”

National Spotlight on Cornwall’s Success

With the spotlight now turning to Cornwall’s approach, this locally-led model is already being expanded elsewhere. In Central London, 28 CHWWs are working across Westminster’s highest-need areas, where early data shows a 7% reduction in A&E visits and a 10% drop in hospital admissions after just one year.

Back in Cornwall, where challenges like loneliness, housing instability, and financial stress remain high, the support from CHWWs is proving to be a lifeline for many.

As the number of CHWWs grows and their work continues into 2025, Cornwall’s approach may well become the blueprint for improving health and wellbeing across the UK.

📷CHWW local and national leaders at Newquay Orchard, left to right: Donna Rowe, Central Cornwall Integrated Care Area development manager; Marcus McAlister, Programme Manager, National Association of Primary Care; Kate Shields, Chief Executive, NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Integrated Care Board; Julie Pollard, CHWW Operational Team Manager, Volunteer Cornwall; Charlotte Hill, Chief Executive, Newquay Orchard.