Quantifying the unmet need that currently exists for Public Health Grant (PHG) services [Phase 2 – Delivery] 

Background

Local Authorities (LAs) in England receive a significant amount of funding, known as the Public Health Grant (PHG), to provide essential public health services. However, the value of this grant has decreased over time, making it difficult for LAs to meet the needs of their communities.

Aims and Objectives

The goal of this research project is to:

1. Estimate Unmet Need: Calculate the amount of additional funding needed to fully address public health needs in each LA.

2. Understand the Problem: Explore the reasons why LAs struggle to meet these needs, including data limitations and decision-making processes.

3. Track Trends: Monitor changes in unmet need over time and compare these to changes in funding levels.

4. Identify Data Gaps: Pinpoint areas where better data is needed to improve future estimates.

Methods

The researchers will use a combination of data analysis and interviews with LA staff to achieve their goals. They will (the below may overlap):

• Analyze Data: Use existing public data and data collected from LAs to estimate unmet need for various public health services.

• Conduct Surveys and Interviews: Survey LAs to understand their current practices and challenges, and conduct in-depth interviews with a select group of LAs to gain a deeper understanding of their experiences.

• Consult with Stakeholders: Work closely with government officials, public health experts, and other stakeholders to ensure the relevance and feasibility of the research.

Policy Relevance and Dissemination

The findings of this research will be valuable to policymakers and public health practitioners. By providing evidence-based estimates of unmet need, the research can help inform decisions about how to allocate PHG funding and prioritize public health services.

The research team will share their findings through various channels, including:

• Reports: A public report summarizing the key findings.

• Academic Publications: Peer-reviewed articles in scientific journals.

• Conferences and Workshops: Presentations at relevant conferences and workshops.

• Wider Engagement: Regular meetings with government officials and other interested parties to share findings and discuss implications.