Northamptonshire trust among first to gain ‘advanced’ NHS status
NHFT set to help shape future of NHS care delivery
Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust (NHFT) has become one of the first organisations in England to be awarded Advanced Foundation Trust (AFT) status, following an assessment by NHS England.
The designation forms part of the NHS’s long-term strategy to reshape care delivery, set out in its 10 Year Health Plan. The programme focuses on three broad shifts: reducing reliance on hospital-based care, expanding digital services, and placing greater emphasis on prevention rather than treatment.
NHFT said the recognition reflects its performance and readiness to take on a more flexible and innovative role within the health system.
Chief executive Angela Hillery described the milestone as a significant moment for the organisation.
“This is an important milestone for NHFT and a reflection of the commitment of our teams and partners, who work every day to provide safe, quality care and make a difference for the communities we serve,” she said.
A platform for innovation
Advanced Foundation Trust status is intended to give organisations greater autonomy and financial flexibility, enabling them to redesign services and develop new models of care.
NHFT said the move would strengthen its ability to innovate and collaborate beyond traditional organisational boundaries, with a focus on improving patient pathways and outcomes across Northamptonshire.
Focus on partnerships
The trust has been recognised for its work building partnerships across the local health and care system. It already works closely with NHS providers, local authorities, and voluntary and community groups.
NHFT said it would continue to develop these relationships, particularly with NHS Northamptonshire Integrated Care Board, with the aim of improving population health and sharing expertise across the system.
Shaping future NHS models
As part of the first group of AFTs, NHFT is expected to play a role in shaping how the model develops nationally, with other trusts encouraged to follow by 2035.
The organisation may also become eligible to hold an Integrated Health Organisation (IHO) contract – a model that would see it take responsibility for managing the health and care needs, and associated budget, of a defined population.
A decision on that status is expected later this year, with discussions ongoing between NHFT and local system partners.
NHFT said it sees the opportunity as a further step towards improving care for residents across the county.