Purpose

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

Decision

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.

Reasons for the decision

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.

Alternative options considered

• 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.