Apply to join the MEAM Approach network

May 18, 2022

MEAM has opened an Expression of Interest process for local areas interested in joining the MEAM Approach network for 2022-2024.  The deadline for applications is 27th June 2022.

The MEAM Approach is a non-prescriptive framework that supports local areas to transform services and systems for people facing multiple disadvantage.

The MEAM Approach is currently being used by cross-sector partnerships in 32 local areas in England, which together form the MEAM Approach network. The network includes long-term MEAM Approach areas, previous Fulfilling Lives areas, and areas with and without Changing Futures investment. The Network supports these areas, brings them together to share learning with peers and provides a consistent focus on systems change.

For the last five years, Cordis Bright has conducted a longitudinal evaluation to assess the impact of the MEAM Approach on people experiencing multiple disadvantage as well as on local systems. The evidence shows that using the MEAM Approach improves people’s lives, reduces rough sleeping and the use of emergency health services, and supports systems change. The latest evaluation report is available on our website, with the fifth (and final) report to be published later this year. A further external evaluation has also found the support offered by MEAM to the MEAM Approach Network to be highly valued by areas and key to driving systems change work locally.

The National Lottery Community Fund has recently awarded MEAM a grant to extend our support to the MEAM Approach network over the next two years and to help shape a nationwide legacy for work on improving support for people facing multiple disadvantage.

We are now looking for 10 new areas to join the MEAM Approach network. This is an exciting opportunity to join a motivated network of areas, dedicated to tackling multiple disadvantage. New areas will benefit from the experience and learning of established members, as well as receiving dedicated support to establish their own MEAM Approach partnerships and draw out new learnings. For full information on what membership provides, please download the EOI pack.

In recent years there has been an increased recognition of the necessity of collaborative working to change systems so that they work for the people they support. There is, however, still lots of work to be done, and the MEAM Approach network is up for the challenge. If you would like to join this movement, we invite you to complete our Expression of Interest form with your local partners and submit it by 27th June 2022. We look forward to hearing from you.