A Citizen-Led Approach to Health and Care

Over a period of six years, public services in Wigan have been through a major process of transformation, based on the idea of building a different relationship with local people. NHS organisations have the opportunity to forge a new relationship with the public that harnesses the strengths and capabilities of individuals and communities.  The new approach to delivering services has become known as the ‘Wigan Deal’. This report provides an independent critique of the Wigan Deal drawing on in-depth research, including interviews with key stakeholders, focus groups with members of the public and evidence from data analysis. It explores what local authorities, NHS organisations and others can learn from Wigan’s journey of transformation. The relationship between public services and the people who use them needs to be transformed to allow people to take greater control of their health and wellbeing.