Prevention Workshop
Coming Together for Prevention: Reflections from Our East Midlands Regional Workshop 21st January 2026
This week, colleagues from across the East Midlands came together for a lively and collaborative workshop focused on strengthening our regional prevention agenda. The room brought together commissioners, practitioners and senior managers — all united by a shared ambition to support people earlier, more effectively and in more joined‑up ways.
From the very start, the energy in the room was clear. People were keen to share what’s working well in their local areas, highlight challenges, and explore how we can build a stronger, more consistent approach to prevention across the region. The conversations were open, honest and full of practical insight.
Sharing Practice and Building Our Evidence Base
One of the strongest themes of the day was the importance of learning from each other. Colleagues showcased great examples of prevention in action — from community‑based initiatives to new ways of working with families and carers. These stories helped us think about what good looks like and where we can build on existing strengths.
Alongside this, there was a shared recognition that we need to continue strengthening our evidence base. Better data, clearer outcomes and more consistent research will help us understand what makes the biggest difference and where we should focus our efforts.
Exploring the “Wicked Issues”
The workshop also gave space to explore some of the more complex challenges facing the region particularly with the changing partnership landscape brought with health and local government reorganisation and growth of neighbourhood working — the “wicked issues” that don’t have simple solutions. These included workforce pressures, rising demand, inequalities, and the need for more coordinated support across organisational boundaries.
What stood out was the willingness to tackle these issues together. No single organisation can solve them alone, and the workshop reinforced the value of collective thinking and shared responsibility.
Digital Innovation and the Role of AI
There was strong enthusiasm for the opportunities offered by digital tools and AI. Colleagues were keen to explore how technology can help us identify needs earlier, support people more effectively, and make better use of the data we already hold. This is an area with huge potential, and the workshop highlighted a real appetite to take this forward as part of our regional work.
A Shared Commitment to Working Differently
Perhaps the most important outcome of the day was the sense of collective purpose. Across all discussions, there was a clear commitment to building a more connected, collaborative and ambitious prevention offer for the East Midlands. By aligning our work, reducing duplication and sharing insight, we can create a stronger and more consistent experience for people and communities.
What Happens Next
Building on the momentum from the workshop, our next steps include:
- Developing a clear set of regional prevention priorities
- Strengthening our shared approach to data, evidence and insight
- Exploring new opportunities for digital and AI
- Creating a regional community of practice to keep learning and collaboration flowing
- Continuing to work closely with health partners, carers, voluntary sector organisations and people with lived experience
This workshop was a reminder of the passion, creativity and commitment across the East Midlands. By continuing to work together, we can build a prevention approach that truly makes a difference.
