Thoughts of a CEO Jan 2022

Welcome to our first newsletter of 2022! It really feels like change is in the air. I’m not just talking about easing of Covid restrictions (for now at least), I’m also talking about a fundamental change in the way health, social care, local authorities, and the voluntary sector work together to improve the lives of Surrey’s residents.

For years, we have pushed to get the voluntary sector recognised as equal partners in the health and care environment of Surrey (and beyond). Don’t get me wrong, we’ve had some great successes (our place on the Health and Wellbeing Board, and the work of the Surrey Wellbeing Partnership to name but two) but the voice of our sector is still not heard in every corner of the health and care systems – our expertise and experience is still not fully respected everywhere it needs to be.

That’s why I am particularly excited by the new Surrey VCSE Alliance. NHS England has recognised the important role we play in health and wellbeing, from the biggest health charities to the smallest community groups, and is keen that we are invited into every room where decisions are made, services are planned, and patient/resident needs are discussed. I am proud to be part of this work (alongside an amazing group of voluntary sector leaders) and I wanted to let you all know what’s going on and how you can engage.

I suspect that a few of you think that health and wellbeing is not what you do but reflect on this: Driving an elderly neighbour to a hospital appointment is supporting health, as are weight loss groups, foodbanks, sports clubs, homelessness support, drug and alcohol care, and so on. But so too are those of you who are helping an unemployed person into work, advising on debt, hosting a cup of tea and a chat. You might not think so, but you too are contributing to the wider determinants of health in Surrey and your role is valuable and is to be recognised.

So, a slightly late happy new year from me and the team at Surrey Community Action, and a hope that 2022 brings you all you need to carry on helping the people of Surrey.