Urgent and emergency care services:

For emergencies call 999
For out of hours healthcare call 111

Telephone: 01228 514830

We strive for excellence in all that we do

Social Sustainability

Cumbria Health as a social enterprise holds social value at the core of its business. We are now on a journey of adapting and challenging ourselves to find ways to make our services more economically, environmentally, and socially sustainable.

Social sustainability is integral to this journey, ensuring that the wellbeing of individuals, families, and communities is not only protected but actively enhanced through our work. This means creating equitable access to healthcare, fostering inclusion, and building long-term resilience within the communities we serve.

Cumbria Health places the patient, family, and their community at the heart of everything we do. 

 

Cumbria Health is committed to:
Tackling the inequality and poverty within our communities
Promote partnership working, implementing local activities which contribute to reducing inequalities and improving health and wellbeing for all.
Improving the quality of life
For the people who live in our communities.
Maximising local investment
Recognising the social, economic and environmental benefits of buying locally when procuring goods and services.
Increase local employment
We commit to increasing employment and training opportunities for local people, especially from areas of high deprivation and unemployment.
Be recognised as a good employer
Providing outstanding careers, ensuring our employees have a positive and fulfilling experience - empowering our staff to deliver outstanding services, sustainably, every day.
Champion equality, diversity and inclusion
Recognising people from different backgrounds and experience make a valuable contribution to the way in which we work.
Be greener and sustainable
We recognise the impact we have on the environment and our responsibility to improve our sustainability.
Champion community engagement
To promote an approach to managing our services and facilities, which drives greater efficiency and sustainability into corporate processes.

Community Engagement and Involvement

We are committed to making a positive impact in the communities we serve through meaningful partnerships, volunteering, and investment in local initiatives.

  • Each year, our staff nominate and support a different Charity of the Year through creative fundraising activities and events.
  • We actively encourage employee volunteering, including leadership and trustee roles within local non-profit organisations.
  • We provide valuable hands-on learning opportunities through placements and training programmes, including GP training schemes.
  • We continue to strengthen and promote the Cumbria Health Social Enterprise Community network, supporting collaboration and shared community impact.

Investing in Our People

We believe our people are at the heart of everything we do and are committed to supporting their growth, wellbeing, and professional development.

  • The UHUK Alston Day Unit was recognised as a winner and shortlisted for the Public Sector Champion award.
  • We have expanded apprenticeship and work experience opportunities to help people access meaningful employment and career development.
  • We recruit Tier 2 GPs and provide a comprehensive mentorship programme to support successful integration and long-term development.
  • We support the wellbeing of our teams through access to our Employee Assistance Programme, ensuring staff have the resources and support they need.

Environmental Impact

We are committed to reducing our environmental footprint and promoting sustainable practices across all areas of our organisation.

  • Enhanced recycling and waste management systems have been implemented across all sites to support responsible disposal and resource efficiency.
  • Digital-first working has significantly reduced printing, with Microsoft Teams adopted as a primary platform for meetings and collaboration.
  • Greener staff travel options are supported through access to the NHS lease car scheme, including a range of electric vehicles.
  • Sustainable fleet management ensures all Cumbria Health vehicles are hybrid, helping to lower emissions across our operations.
  • Energy-efficient estates improvements include the installation of solar panels, LED lighting upgrades, and optimised heating systems to reduce energy consumption.

Procurement and Social Value

Our procurement approach reflects our commitment to social value, sustainability, and supporting local communities.

  • Recognised excellence: Achieved full marks in Social Value assessments during major GP contract bids, demonstrating our dedication to community impact.
  • Embedded social value: Integrated social value priorities into all procurement processes, aligning every opportunity with our mission as a social enterprise.
  • Responsible supply chain: Actively encourage and challenge suppliers to demonstrate their own social value contributions, raising standards across our network.
  • Local investment: Prioritise spending within Cumbria wherever possible, ensuring that resources are reinvested into the communities we serve.

Social Value Strategy

Aligned with our January 2024 Value Strategy, Cumbria Health is dedicated to upholding these core values.

Cumbria Health January 2024 Value Strategy