Six digital companies are set to share £1.5 million in WorkWell funding under a programme led by NHS North East and North Cumbria ICB, in partnership with Health Innovation North East and North Cumbria, local councils and combined authorities, the Department for Work and Pensions, and voluntary, community, and social enterprise organisations. The North East and North Cumbria is one of only three regions in England to receive funding through the Government’s Health and Growth Accelerator scheme.
Samantha Allen, chief executive of North East and North Cumbria ICB, highlighted that supporting people to stay well and in work is a key priority for the region. She noted that these digital innovations will provide faster, easier access to health support, improve care, expand access, and make the best use of NHS resources for the benefit of local communities.
The successful proposals include online mental health platforms Dr Julian, Tellmi, and XR Therapeutics, a digital physiotherapy-style service called Sword Health (Thrive), Virtual Menopause Clinics provided by the Hartlepool and Stockton GP Federation, and the Sunderland Integrated Musculoskeletal Service.
Dr Nicola Hutchinson, chief executive of Health Innovation North East and North Cumbria, stated that backing these six companies will accelerate the integration of proven digital health solutions into NHS services. The investment is expected to help people across the region stay well, feel supported, and remain in work, demonstrating how collaboration and innovation can deliver meaningful change in healthcare delivery.
