North Manchester Long-Term Conditions Project
Overview of the Project
Funded until 31 March 2027 by the Manchester Local Care Organisation, Manchester Settlement is in partnership with four voluntary community and social enterprise organisations (Neighbourhood Health Creation Organisations); one in each of the areas of North Manchester listed below, to roll out a new Community Health Creation Project.
1) Cheetham and Crumpsall
2) Higher Blackley, Harpurhey and Charlestown
3) Miles Platting, Newton Heath and Moston
4) Ancoats, Beswick, Clayton and Openshaw
Project Aims
This project enables targeted communities with long term health conditions to take control of their own health by embracing the existing relationships, trust and connectivity that underpin the work of key VCSE community organisations to meet the following aims:-
• To improve awareness of and management of long term health conditions (LTC’s)
• Develop and implement activity across 4 priority areas across North Manchester
• Embed ‘The Health Creation Framework’ in all processes
Health Creation in North Manchester: Interim Project Update
The Long-Term Conditions Health Creation Project is a community-led programme funded by Manchester Local Care Organisation (MLCO) and coordinated by Manchester Settlement. Over the first half of the project, a strong delivery infrastructure has been established across North Manchester, bringing together four Neighbourhood Health Creation Organisations and 16 grassroots community partners to tackle health inequalities and support people living with long-term health conditions.
Operationally, the project has successfully recruited and supported 20 partner organisations, trained 51 volunteer Health Creators, delivered 19 learning and development events, and established governance, evaluation and partnership structures to support sustainable community-led delivery. To date, partners have delivered over 550 community sessions, engaging over 600 residents across diverse communities and neighbourhoods.
Early evidence shows the project is helping people take greater control of their health. Participant feedback indicates improved understanding and self-management of conditions such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension and respiratory conditions, with 32% reporting healthier lifestyle changes and 26% reporting increased confidence and ability to manage their health. Many participants have also shared their learning with family and community members, extending the project's impact beyond those directly involved.
The project is also strengthening the capacity of local voluntary and community organisations. Through training, mentoring and collaborative learning, partners are developing new skills, practices and community leadership, creating a stronger foundation for long-term community health improvement. At the halfway stage, the programme is demonstrating how trusted local organisations can play a vital role in reducing health inequalities, improving wellbeing and building healthier, more connected communities.
Download the full interim report below
