Dorset HealthCare University NHS Foundation Trust has been confirmed by NHS England as one of the first six trusts in the country to achieve Advanced Foundation Trust (AFT) status.

This milestone supports the ambitions of the NHS 10 Year Health Plan, which sets out a shift towards more preventative, community-based and integrated models of care.

The designation recognises the trust’s track record of quality, leadership and financial sustainability, alongside its role as a key partner in the Dorset health and care system delivering joined-up care and improved outcomes for local communities. Crucially, it reflects the impact of close collaboration with partners to improve health and wellbeing outcomes for local people.

The freedoms associated with Advanced Foundation Trust status provide greater flexibility to lead and support system-wide change and make local decisions about investment. This will help to shift care towards prevention, neighbourhood-based services and more integrated support across physical and mental health.

Matthew Bryant, Chief Executive of Dorset HealthCare, said:

“We’re delighted to have been confirmed as an Advanced Foundation Trust, which reflects the commitment of our staff and the strength of the partnerships we have across Dorset, focussing on the health and wellbeing of our population.

“The freedoms that come with AFT status will give us the flexibility to go further, as we continue to build locally-based neighbourhood care, tackle inequalities and support people to stay well for longer. That’s what matters most, and that’s what we will continue to focus on.”

Dorset HealthCare provides community and mental health services to around 800,000 people across Dorset and Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole. The trust works closely with partners across health, care and the voluntary sector and co-leads neighbourhood health initiatives, with primary care colleagues, that are designed to improve outcomes and reduce pressure on hospital services.

As an Advanced Foundation Trust, Dorset HealthCare will continue to work with partners to develop integrated models of care that are sustainable, locally led and focused on long‑term population health.

To find out more about Advanced Foundation Trusts see the NHS England website.