British Red Cross to deliver new Positive Lives Service

Following a thorough procurement process, NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin has awarded the contract for the new Positive Lives Service (formerly HISU) to the British Red Cross.

The British Red Cross, which has a wealth of experience delivering similar services nationally, began mobilising the service from 1st October 2022.

The Positive Lives Service will work with individuals, aged 18 and over, who are identified as frequent users of our emergency services, including 999, NHS 111, A&E, and emergency hospital admissions, to ensure that their health and wellbeing needs are met. It will identify more appropriate routes of care that can better meet their specific needs and address some of the issues which are causing them to seek support from these services.

This service will replace the two currently commissioned Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin High Intensity Service Users (HISU) services and is based on a model recommended by NHS England operating in Blackpool.

A review of the services took place last year to understand what works already and what could be improved. The insight gathered has been used to shape the design and develop the new name to reflect the positive aims of the service.

A plan will be in place for any individuals currently under the care of the existing services so they can continue with their pathway and support with the British Red Cross and the new Positive Lives Service.

Once the new service goes live, individuals who could benefit will be identified using patient data captured by 999, NHS 111, and A&E. They will then be contacted by the British Red Cross service leads with an offer of support.