CLCH awarded advanced foundation trust status
CLCH has been successfully assessed by NHS England and awarded advanced foundation trust (AFT) status – a national marker of excellence that recognises strong leadership, high performance and effective governance.
The designation follows a detailed assessment of how the organisation is led, governed and financially managed, as well as how it delivers high‑quality care for patients.
Advanced foundation trust status will enable greater strategic and operational autonomy, a streamlined approach to annual planning, greater financial flexibility, and a regulatory relationship that recognises the Trust’s strong leadership capability.
This achievement reflects the dedication and professionalism of CLCH staff, who work hard to deliver safe, effective and compassionate care in communities across London and Hertfordshire.
James Benson, Chief Executive Officer at Central London Community Healthcare NHS Trust, said:
“Achieving advanced foundation trust status is a significant moment for CLCH. It recognises the outstanding commitment of staff across all services and teams, our operational grip and our ability to deliver high‑quality care while maintaining financial balance.
“This status gives us greater freedom and flexibility in how we run the organisation, including a simpler approach to planning. That means we can focus more of our time and resources on what matters most – supporting our patients to receive great care closer to home.”
Mark Friend, Chair in Common at Central London Community Healthcare NHS Trust, said:
“Being recognised as a prospective advanced foundation trust is a strong endorsement of CLCH’s strategic direction and our long‑term ambition as an organisation.
“It supports our focus on neighbourhood‑based working, where community services play a vital role in keeping people well, supporting independence and working alongside partners to meet local needs. This status reinforces our position as a strong, credible system partner and gives us a solid platform to continue shaping community and neighbourhood care for the future.”
