RCOT responds to consultation about proposed new contracting models
RCOT responds to consultation about proposed new contracting models to support neighbourhood health services in England.
RCOT has responded to NHS England’s consultation on proposed Multi Neighbourhood Provider (MNP) and Single Neighbourhood Provider (SNP) contracting models, which aim to support the delivery of integrated neighbourhood health services.
In our response, we welcome the ambition to strengthen neighbourhood health services through more integrated and locally focused models of care. We highlight the important contribution occupational therapists make within multidisciplinary teams, supporting prevention, rehabilitation, independent living and care closer to home.
Our submission emphasises that any new contracting arrangements must give equal prominence to outcomes such as independence, participation and wellbeing, alongside traditional healthcare measures. We call for occupational therapists and other allied health professionals (AHPs) to be fully involved in the design, delivery and leadership of neighbourhood services.
RCOT also stresses the importance of ensuring that social care, housing and voluntary sector partners are embedded within neighbourhood models. We argue that successful integration depends not only on contractual arrangements, but on strong multidisciplinary partnerships focused on the needs and priorities of local communities.
The response raises concerns about the potential impact of contractual reform on the existing workforce, particularly occupational therapists and other professionals employed through the Additional Roles Reimbursement Scheme (ARRS). We call for clear safeguards to protect workforce investment, maintain continuity of care and support the continued development of multidisciplinary teams.
Genevieve Smyth, RCOT Professional Advisor, said:
The proposals set out an important opportunity to strengthen neighbourhood health services and support the shift towards more preventative, personalised and community-based care.
In our response, we emphasised that occupational therapists and other allied health professionals must be recognised as core members of Integrated Neighbourhood Teams. Their expertise is essential in helping people manage long-term conditions, maintain independence, avoid unnecessary hospital admissions and remain connected to their communities.
We also highlighted the need to protect existing workforce investment and ensure that any transition to new contracting arrangements does not disrupt established multidisciplinary teams or reduce opportunities for occupational therapists to contribute to neighbourhood services.”
You can read our response here: