About the project
Pioneered by local GPs, the Octopus model brings the Local Authority, voluntary and community sectors and health professionals together to deliver personal and responsive services. The scheme employs Community Health Workers ('Chewies') who work door-to-door within their community, to ensure all residents access preventive, health and other local services.
Local capacity created
Ability to provide preventative and alternative healthcare projects
Strong social infrastructure to build community involvement
All parties committed to building and resourcing a collaborative local healthcare model
Local people trained to provide voluntary and skilled prevention and rehabilitation roles
Impact achieved
Skills gaps filled by trained local people in paid and voluntary roles
Uptake of paid and voluntary roles relating to health
A skilled and committed local work force and less reliance on stretched care services