Podcast – Robert McCartney – Single Neighbourhood Provider Contracts: What PCNs Need to Do Now

The proposed Single Neighbourhood Provider Contract could significantly reshape how services are commissioned and delivered at neighbourhood level, but with many details still to be confirmed, PCNs are being faced with important decisions now. In this episode, Ben Gowland is joined by Robert McCartney, Senior Associate at Hempsons, to discuss what we know so far about the SNP Contract, the growing focus on neighbourhood footprints, and how local PCN DES variations could provide opportunities for PCNs to begin implementing change without waiting for national guidance. They explore the practical steps PCNs can take to strengthen their position, including leadership, governance, incorporation, and service redesign. Robert shares why proactive PCNs may be best placed to influence the future of neighbourhood working, maintain control of local services, and demonstrate their ability to lead change across their communities. Introduction (0:08) What are PCNs and practices asking for support with right now? (0:41) Why are some PCNs preparing for the future while others are taking a wait-and-see approach? (1:25) What impact are funding changes having on PCNs and workforce planning? (2:46) What is the Single Neighbourhood Provider (SNP) Contract? (4:09) How could neighbourhood footprints affect PCN boundaries and membership? (6:01) Can multiple PCNs work together under a neighbourhood model? (7:44) Does collaboration increase the risk of another organisation holding the contract? (9:13) What do the new PCN DES local variations mean for practices? (10:39) Could local DES variations reduce the need for an SNP Contract? (11:11) What opportunities do local variations create for service redesign? (13:47) How do local variations differ from the SNP Contract? (14:50) What should PCNs be doing now to prepare for the future? (17:44) How can proactive leadership help PCNs retain influence and control? (19:58) What practical steps should PCNs take to implement neighbourhood working? (20:36) Do PCNs have the leadership and management capacity needed for change? (22:18) Is incorporation necessary to prepare for the SNP Contract? (23:55) When does setting up a company make sense for a PCN? (24:17) Can federations provide an alternative to incorporation? (26:20) How long does incorporation take and what are the common mistakes? (27:56) Visit the Hempsons website here. For all enquiries about the Ockham podcast, please contact Ben Gowland here.