17 April 2026

RQIA has published an independent follow-up report “A Whole-System Approach”, reviewing progress against the recommendations made in its 2024 Review, “Working Collaboratively to Reduce Harm”, which was carried out in the Southern Health and Social Care Trust area.

The 2024 review recommendations aimed to improve how organisations from the statutory and independent sectors work together as part of a ‘whole’ health and social care system, including the HSC Trust, the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, general practice and independent providers of care homes and home care.

The Whole-System Approach Report, drawing on candid reflections from all who participated, sets out that there is a willingness and desire for cooperation as part of a ‘whole-system’ health and social care service. There is growing evidence that ‘whole-system working’ – working better together – leads to improved patient outcomes and enhances patient experience. It also leads to better identification of opportunities for innovation and continuous improvement; to better use of resources; and to improved workforce wellbeing, stronger community engagement, and more effective tackling of health and social inequalities.

In Northern Ireland’s “integrated” health and social care system, the many public sector and independent sector organisations involved in providing health and social care services are commissioned and funded in different ways. Independent providers play a large part, particularly in primary care and in social care services; which are essential to the smooth functioning of hospital acute services, and, above all, to the quality of life and experience of patients and service users.

The issues that inhibit ‘whole-system’ working are complex but have major impacts on the quality and efficiency of services delivered, and on the lives of people who depend on them. The Whole-System Approach report describes these issues, and makes recommendations for collective efforts to address them.

The Authority believes that, as the Neighbourhood Model is adopted across Northern Ireland, the barriers to effective whole-system working must be tackled with determination and urgency. RQIA is committed to using its regional role to bring people together and to catalyse action; enable ongoing local engagement; and strengthen the implementation of whole-system working both locally and regionally.

You can read the full report by clicking on the following link: A Whole-System Approach Report

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For further information contact David Silcock or Tony Sheridan on 07825 146608 or Email: info@rqia.org.uk