The newly released NHS 10-Year Plan sets out a bold vision to reform the system—transforming how care is delivered and who delivers it. This has significant implications for the VCSE (Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise) sector, which is now positioned as a vital partner in shaping the future of health and care.
A Shift to Community-Based Care
A key ambition of the Plan is to move care “from hospital to community”. This means neighbourhood-based services, multidisciplinary teams, and care that is accessible, local and integrated.
For VCSE organisations already rooted in communities, this presents a major opportunity to lead or support the delivery of local services—from mental health support and long-term condition management to social prescribing and crisis intervention.
Prevention at the Heart
The Plan commits to moving from “sickness to prevention”, recognising that lifestyle, environment and community play huge roles in health outcomes. VCSEs already do vital work in this space—whether it’s tackling food insecurity, promoting physical activity, or supporting mental wellbeing.
With growing emphasis on preventative approaches, there is potential for increased funding and partnership opportunities—especially for organisations that can demonstrate impact in reducing health risks and inequalities.
Going Digital
The future NHS will be “digital by default”—with a radically upgraded NHS App acting as a ‘digital front door’ to services. While this offers exciting new possibilities, it also poses challenges, particularly for those at risk of digital exclusion.
VCSE organisations have an important role to play in bridging the digital divide, supporting service users to access care, build digital confidence, and navigate new tools and platforms.
Tackling Inequality
From poor oral health to limited access in rural areas, the Plan confronts the fact that health outcomes vary drastically across different groups. It pledges to close the gap—and calls for deeper collaboration with local government and civil society.
This is a clear call to action for VCSE organisations. Whether you support ethnic minority communities, survivors of violence, people living with disabilities or those experiencing homelessness, your work is essential to tackling health inequalities at their root.
A New Role in a Devolved System
The Plan outlines a move towards a more local, devolved NHS, with power shifting from Whitehall to Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) and local systems.
This opens up new pathways for VCSE engagement and influence, but also requires readiness: strong governance, data capability, and the confidence to co-design services with statutory partners. This reinforces the importance of a strong and vibrant VCSE Alliance, we all have a part to play.
This is a pivotal moment. The NHS of the future is one that cannot succeed without the VCSE sector. Our challenge—and opportunity and our role as an Alliance —is to ensure we are at the table and not on the menu!