The significant investment is primarily focused on reducing waits for planned hospital care, with the goal of achieving the national ambition for patients to receive treatment within 18 weeks. However, the funding will also support improvements across a broader range of services, including cancer and diagnostic services, community services, mental health, neurodevelopmental services, and primary care.
Particular attention will be given to addressing long waits for children and young people, specifically concerning mental health assessments and support for those with neurodevelopmental needs. This includes exploring options to increase assessment and treatment capacity, as well as providing additional support for adults awaiting ADHD treatment.
The investment also aims to improve access to dementia assessments and diagnosis, testing new approaches for more efficient care delivery and reducing waiting times for answers and support. The ICB acknowledges the profound impact that long waits can have on individuals' health and wellbeing.
In parallel, work is progressing on the future of hospital services, with the Norfolk and Waveney University Hospitals Group's Case for Change being considered. The ICB Board has agreed to develop a Pre-Consultation Business Case to explore various options for delivering improved outcomes, with no decisions made regarding service closures, reductions, or relocations. The focus is on a holistic health and care system, integrating prevention, community services, and digital technology.
Developments closer to home include the construction of a new £16 million St Elizabeth Hospice in Gorleston, offering inpatient beds and outpatient services. A new neighbourhood health and wellbeing service has also launched at St Saviour's Yard in Norwich, integrating NHS, council, and voluntary sector partners. In Suffolk, a £1.2 million extension and refurbishment at Bungay Medical Practice has created new clinical rooms and improved facilities.
Digital initiatives are also underway, with NHS teams collaborating with libraries during Get Online Week to help residents access the NHS App. A new NHS-funded Mental Health Crisis Text Support Service is now available 24/7 across the East of England, offering an alternative way to reach mental health professionals via text, WhatsApp, or online chat.
The 'Stay Well This Winter' campaign is encouraging vaccinations, with Norfolk and Suffolk currently leading the East of England for flu and COVID-19 uptake. The East of England Ambulance Service handled a record 1.5 million 999 calls in 2025/26, highlighting the importance of choosing the right care.
Partnerships are also strengthening wider social and economic development. The 'Steps to Safety' programme will receive £2.8 million to enhance support for victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence. Additionally, over £289,000 has been awarded to 27 community projects across Norfolk and Suffolk through Ørsted’s Hornsea 3 Community Fund.
The briefing also celebrates achievements, including the Norfolk Care Awards 2026, the Mental Health Awards won by NSFT's Better Sleep Programme, and the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust's Heart initiative training over 20,000 people in CPR skills. A special mention is made of a visit from Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales to East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) in Ipswich.
Looking ahead, improving access to NHS dentistry remains a key priority, with work underway to increase capacity and expand urgent dental care. Further updates on these plans will be provided next month.
