The challenge
Alliancing and alliance contracting are well-established approaches known for driving collaboration, innovation, and high performance in health and social care. However, despite their benefits, many organisations and individuals face significant barriers to getting started and running alliances effectively. Challenges include understanding organisational readiness, embedding collaboration in practice, incorporating lived experience, navigating financial risk, and fostering shared decision-making. There is also a need to create spaces where people at different stages of their alliancing journey can connect, share experiences, and learn from one another.
What we did
To address these challenges, we hosted the first UK Alliancing in Health and Social Care Symposium in Birmingham in 2022. This event brought together a diverse group of attendees, including those new to alliancing and experienced professionals from established alliances. The day was structured to reflect on ten years of alliancing in the sector and foster open discussions on key topics such as:
- Readiness for alliances
- Developing and managing alliances
- Embedding lived experience in alliance work
- Collaborative practice and shared decision-making
- Managing financial risks and overcoming related barriers
The symposium included an open space session, enabling attendees to lead discussions on the issues most relevant to them. This participatory approach encouraged meaningful exchanges, breaking down formal barriers and allowing for emotional, honest conversations.
Our impact
The symposium provided a much-needed platform for connection, reflection, and learning. Attendees found the event liberating and refreshing, with many appreciating the opportunity to exchange ideas and experiences in an open, supportive environment. One participant shared:
“It was fantastic to be provided the space to reflect, think, and learn with others from around the UK. The structure and format of the day were perfect, and I loved the open space format – liberating and refreshing.”
Beyond the symposium, we coordinate and facilitate Alliancing Peer Networks, which meet every six weeks to provide real-time support. These groups – one for alliance managers and another for alliance commissioners – offer a space for sharing experiences, troubleshooting challenges, and fostering collaboration. The peer-led agenda ensures that the support remains relevant and impactful, whether for newcomers or seasoned alliance professionals.
Through these efforts, we are building a robust community of practice, empowering individuals and organisations to embrace alliancing with courage and confidence.
Read more about the symposium here.
