The Corporate Resources and Communities Scrutiny Committee has received an update on the development of the Changing Futures programme in Knowsley, which is due to be implemented this autumn and run until March 2029.
Changing Futures is a national Government initiative designed to improve outcomes for adults experiencing multiple disadvantage and to drive fundamental reform in how local systems support them.
Knowsley has been selected as part of Phase 2 of the programme, alongside Liverpool City Council within the Liverpool City Region. This reflects both the scale of need locally and the strength of our partnership arrangements.
Knowsley has secured £2.5m of Government funding, which will be used to support around 300 residents experiencing multiple, complex needs. The programme aims to:-
- Improve life outcomes for individuals through intensive, trauma-informed support.
- Drive long-term system reform, based on learning from delivery.
Initial developmental work has begun, including the establishment of a programme team, recruitment processes, a programme delivery plan, engagement with partners and external stakeholders.
A delivery plan has been developed which highlights strong partnership arrangements across the borough, with established governance structures and a range of support services already in place. However, significant challenges remain, including fragmented service pathways, difficulties in sharing data, workforce pressures, inconsistent trauma-informed practice and repeat presentations due to traditional service thresholds.
As part of the delivery plan’s development, a multi-agency workshop was convened which identified the need for a more coordinated, person-centred and trauma-informed approach, underpinned by stronger multi-agency working, improved use of data and intelligence, and greater involvement of people with lived experience in service design and delivery.
The programme will provide intensive support to residents experiencing multiple disadvantage, whilst also acting as a catalyst for wider system change.
Regular updates will be shared as the programme progresses.