Across England, neighbourhood teams are entering a new phase. What began as a structural ambition in integrated care policy is becoming a practical reality, with ICSs placing greater focus on how general practice, community services, mental health teams, social care and voluntary partners work together at population level. NHS England’s Thriving Neighbourhood Teams guidance outlines this shift, positioning neighbourhood-level delivery as central to future care models.

Conversations across practices and Primary Care Networks reflect a growing consensus that neighbourhood teams can do more than coordinate services, they can influence outcomes. Evidence from the Health Foundation shows that well-designed neighbourhood models can improve continuity, create clearer referral pathways and support proactive care for people with complex needs. Case studies published by organisations such as the Nuffield Trust highlight reductions in avoidable referrals, improvements in long-term condition management and smoother transitions between primary and community care.

A cultural shift is also underway. System leaders are increasingly working together to align priorities across primary care and ICS structures, and clinicians are being involved earlier and more meaningfully in shaping neighbourhood plans. Examples of co-chaired ICS and primary care groups reflect this trend, encouraging shared accountability. The King’s Fund’s analysis of integrated care implementation underscores how joint decision-making and distributed leadership can strengthen neighbourhood planning.

Neighbourhood models have the potential to manage rising demand, reduce duplication and improve care quality, particularly when supported by strong relationships, communication and shared goals.

As the model matures, practices are increasingly looking for real examples to learn from. These conversations are shaping forums like Best Practice London 2026, where cross-system collaboration and neighbourhood-led improvement will feature prominently and where teams can explore how others have turned partnership into measurable progress.