Following a successful pilot period, during which the model was tested at 24 trusts, the Crossing Professional Boundaries toolkit will offer practical, step-by-step guidance aimed at getting finance and clinical staff collaborating. It has been developed by the Future Focused Finance programme, which aims to boost the skills and profile of the NHS finance profession.
Speaking at the launch on Friday, Bob Alexander, executive director of resources/deputy chief executive at NHS Improvement, said the toolkit was a “spectacularly important part” of the Future Focused Finance Plan.
He said the 24 pilots feels like a “rather small” start. “I hope we can get more drive and take in the service … I urge those who are inspired to go back and get stuck in.”
CIPFA conducted an independent evaluation of the pilots by interviewing key staff who took part.
Jane Payling, head of health and integration at CIPFA, told the event that feedback on the toolkit had been “overwhelmingly positive”, with participants praising its clarity and structure as well as its adaptability.
She added that collaboration across finance and clinical teams demanded the involvement and commitment of leaders.
“It needs to be something that’s not just led by finance but is embraced by the whole organisation.”
