Decision details

To approve an extension of the Stay Healthy, Independent and Connected (SHIC) grant programme for a 12-month period commencing on 1 April 2026.

Approval has been given for the extension of the Stay Healthy, Independent and Connected (SHIC) grant programme for a 12-month period commencing on 1 April 2026.

SHIC is a 3+1-year mixed-model grant programme launched in April 2023, replacing previous contracted models. It funds 25 locality-based VCSE organisations to deliver low-level prevention and support services. The programme builds on COVID-era learning and aligns with NYC’s strategic prevention goals.

• SHIC supports older people, those with disabilities, and individuals facing life challenges.
• Services include information and advice, social activities, practical support, and volunteering. Community involvement is sustained post-intervention.
• Outcomes include sustained trusted VCSE network, strengthened local capacity, reduced isolation and improved independence and wellbeing
• Over 4,000 group sessions and 35,000 attendances were recorded in 2024/25, with 1000 volunteers involved.
• Additional funding is leveraged by grant holders.

Benefits to extending the grant programme:
• Maintains funding and programme outputs.
• Allows strategic refinement and alignment.
• Builds trust with VCSE partners and relevant council services.
• Builds evidence to support further funding opportunities and links with other emerging prevention programmes.

• Continue as-is with a one-year extension. This would maintain the current model without any changes and would be a missed opportunity for improvement.
• Cease funding of this programme entirely. This would lead to a loss of preventative community support and risk reducing our ability to develop our prevention ambitions in the longer term.
• Re-procure for 3 years – this would mean launching a new procurement process for a longer-term model. It would be an opportunity to redesign a model; however, there is a risk of a rushed process, insufficient time for market engagement and potential loss of continuity.