'This is Us' North East Model Neighbourhood

People living in north-east Sheffield are benefiting from a one million pound community fund to support healthy and happy neighbourhoods in the area.  

NHS South Yorkshire is investing the funds to support these communities in delivering what matters to them, helping everyone live their best lives. 

The programme, called ‘This Is Us’, brings together the NHS, Sheffield City Council and the voluntary community sector to focus on four north-east neighbourhoods:

• Burngreave and Grimesthorpe, which includes Pitsmoor
• Firth Park
• Fir Vale and Crabtree, which includes Page Hall
• Longley

The goal is to help these areas thrive by bringing people together. We’re focusing on strengthening and connecting communities to create healthy neighbourhoods rather than providing health care or treating illnesses. As we know, people who are connected and empowered have better health.

We aim to help develop communities where local people know their neighbours, have strong relationships, and a network of people who support and look out for one another. Overall, this is about building connections and empowering communities to come together, focusing on and acting on what matters to them, rather than the NHS. This sets out an exciting new approach for the NHS, with investment in communities to effect long-term change in people’s lives.

When people feel empowered and supported, it not only improves individual wellbeing but also reduces the strain on the health and care system. Tackling loneliness by fostering connections in these neighbourhoods, will have a positive impact on the health and wellbeing of people living there.

In these parts of Sheffield, many people don’t always get the same chances in life. This can mean poorer health, shorter life expectancy, fewer opportunities in education and employment, and not always having a say in their own communities.

Feeling cut off or lonely can also affect health and wellbeing. That’s why NHS South Yorkshire is investing in prevention and supporting local groups — to help bring people together, strengthen communities, and give everyone the chance to live healthier, happier lives.

Watch the video below to hear from 4 voluntary community sector l​​eaders who’ve been involved on what 'This is Us' means to them.