The Government has published the Local Outcomes Framework – a series of shared measures by which it will transparently assess progress by local authorities, health and other partner bodies to improve outcomes for residents.
MEAM is pleased to see that the Framework includes multiple disadvantage as a ‘Priority Outcome’. This marks the first time ever that the Government has requested regular information from local areas about their work on this important topic.
The Framework includes both system-level goals and service-specific metrics related to multiple disadvantage. We particularly welcome the focus on the system-level and the direction from government that there needs to be clear local responsibility and governance for work on multiple disadvantage, a shared understanding of the problem, demonstratable evidence of plans to improve collaboration, and involvement by all partners and people with Lived Experience both strategically and operationally. The focus on data maturity to support learning and better understanding of need is also a helpful development.
While many of the system and service-level measures are still at an early stage of development, their inclusion shows that the Government recognises the importance of taking a systemic and cross-sector approach to multiple disadvantage and that it wishes to build on the work and evidence from MEAM Approach and Changing Futures areas.
Since 2009, MEAM has provided a wide range of support to local areas working to transform services and systems for people facing multiple disadvantage. If your local area is interested in further developing its practice and systemic approach to better support people experiencing multiple disadvantage in light of the new Local Outcomes Framework, we would be pleased to discuss how we can support your work.
Please email info@meam.org.uk to set up a conversation.