What is in a name? Jargon-busting and the anatomy of the NHS Big Society

Released: 24/08/2010

The NHS Alliance will be publishing a series of articles and papers on social enterprise and its role in the future NHS. The first in the series – Semantics of the Big Society – has been published today.

Semantics is a guide which explains the difference and similarities between the social enterprise, mutual and co-operative models.

Mo Girach, Special Advisor on Social Enterprise and Co-operatives to the NHS Alliance, said: “The UK Government programme for the NHS refers to social enterprises, mutuals and co-operatives and, while we don’t want to be bogged down by the jargon, these words will be around for a long time to come and having a guide to help people to make sense of them is the very first small step in a path that could change the way we see and organise the NHS.

“Words can be important, but the best way to learn about these forms is to look at real life examples of how these structures work in different settings, and how they can be applied to improve the NHS and its services to patients up and down the country.”

Geraint Day, a specialist in health co-operatives, said: "The quality and outcomes of health services are what matter in the end. On the other hand, if parts of NHS healthcare in England are to be delivered via co-operative, mutual or social enterprise organisations, it is important that proper attention is paid to their accountabilities when choosing among the various structures on offer."

Ends.

Notes to editors:

1.   A copy of Semantics of the Big Society is attached.

2.   The NHS Alliance is the only independent body that brings together primary care trusts’ chief executives and other senior managers, doctors and practice managers, nurses, pharmacists and allied health professionals, along with board chairs and members. We are a value-driven organisation, with no political affiliation, which works in partnership with various bodies associated with the NHS to create a progressive health service that is free from the traditional tribalism of single interest groups.

3.   For more information, please email pressoffice@nhsalliance.org or call 07772756674.