The Strategy Unit works on complex challenges. We add value where clear thinking, applied analysis and high quality decision making is needed. Our services span the innovation and improvement cycle. We help our customers to Diagnose, Develop and Deliver.
Case study: Problem structuring
Our analysis challenged received wisdom about A&E performance and what causes long waiting times. It had important implications for healthcare policy and system leadership. Find out more: A&E Waiting Times.
Case study: Comparative analysis
Services get one chance to provide people with a ‘good death’. Our analysis helped services in the Midlands identify areas for improvement in supporting their populations at the end of life. Find out more: Healthcare use in the last two years of life.
Case study: Complex modelling
The pandemic led to a massive increase in waiting lists. Standard modelling approaches wouldn’t work, so we released a new open source, systems dynamics model to help services understand and address demand. Find out more: Modelling the impact of Covid-19 on waiting lists.
Case study: Population mapping
Our analysis used novel techniques to help Guy’s and St. Thomas’ charity design a programme to address health inequalities arising from poor local air quality. Find out more: Health impacts of poor air quality.
Case study: Strategy development
Economic shocks have health consequences. So we helped the Black Country and West Birmingham develop strategies to improve both health and local wealth during recovery from the pandemic. Find out more: Breaking the cycle of deprivation and ill health.
Case study: Options appraisal
We provided a comprehensive appraisal of options for acute hospital reconfiguration in Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin. Our recommendations were unanimously approved, allowing this programme to move into public consultation. Find out more: Acute hospital reconfiguration - options appraisal.
Case study: Futures thinking
Using scenario planning, we helped the Black Country’s Local Workforce Action Board to think more creatively and openly in developing its future clinical workforce. Find out more: Scenarios for the clinical workforce.
Case study: Evaluation and impact assessment
We produced a guide to help local services and analysts evaluate their work. It was recognised as the most comprehensive evaluation guide in the NHS. Find out more: Comprehensive Evaluation Guide.
We never sell pre-packaged ‘solutions’. Our support is always tailored to the needs of the organisations, networks and systems we work with.
And we believe in creating public value. We always seek to share and learn from what we produce; sometimes we publish in peer reviewed journals.