Congratulations to Compass, the Trust’s Not-for-Profit community interest company, who won the Innovation in Supporting NHS Trusts award. Their dedication to tackling social inequalities has been recognised by this prestigious national award.

They work to bridge the gap between voluntary, community, and social enterprise organisations (VCSEs) and healthcare services by building capacity in the sector, improving the ability of these organisations to engage with the Trust, and facilitating partnership working.

One of its key achievements has been to foster partnerships with the Trust, including developing a simple application process for funding from grassroots organisations.

Between July 2021 and July 2022 Compass ran 10 procurement programmes on behalf of ELFT, with more than £6.6m funding awarded for 124 VCSE contracts and projects across City & Hackney, Newham, Tower Hamlets, Luton, Central Bedfordshire and Bedford. Funding and grants have been awarded to groups helping Asian elders living with dementia through to a boxing coaching wellbeing programme for children.