The National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Applied Research Collaboration Kent, Surrey and Sussex (ARC KSS) is marking a double milestone this autumn, the publication of its Annual Report Summary 2024–2025 and its 6th birthday.
Since its launch in October 2019, ARC KSS has become a driving force for health and care research across the region. It has secured more than £20 million in research funding, received £5.9 million in additional grants, and supported 299 research projects tackling public needs.
This year’s report, published today (17 November), highlights the wide range of activity that ARC KSS has been involved in, the impact it is making across the region, and how it is already delivering on the ambitions of the government's 10-Year Health Plan by focussing on 3 key priorities:
- Bringing care closer to home: by working with local communities and health professionals to make service more accessible and tailored to people's needs, moving care our of hospitals and into neighbourhoods. Such as the 'Growing Health Together' programme in East Surrey which connects NHS staff, councils, charities and residents to focus on prevention and community-based care, reducing demand on GP surgeries.
- Harnessing digital innovation: by supporting the development of digital tools and technology that improve access to care and empowers individuals to manage their health. For example, the DERM AI tool for skin cancer diagnosis that has reduced unnecessary appointments and saved NHS resources.
- Prioritising prevention: by championing preventative approaches and supporting community-led health initiatives, to help people stay healthy and reduce the need to hospital-based care. Such as the development of a new scheme in Sussex that trains local link works and mentors to support young people's mental health in their own communities, making them more accessible and effective.
Professor Stephen Peckham, ARC KSS Director, says:
“The government’s 10-Year Health Plan sets out an ambitious vision for a healthier, more resilient nation - one that brings care closer to home, harnesses digital innovation, and puts prevention at the heart of our health system. We are proud to be turning this vision into reality across Kent, Surrey, and Sussex. Through building research capacity, mobilising knowledge, and working hand-in-hand with our communities, we are already delivering practical solutions that improve lives and strengthen our NHS for the future.”
In recognition of its performance, ARC KSS has been rated highly by the NIHR for successfully continuing to deliver on its objectives. This rating reflects the ARC's commitment to ensuring that research is translated into real-world improvements for health and social care across the region.
