Salford bridges health and economy to empower communities and tackle inequality through innovative social enterprise.
A CITY DIVIDED BY HEALTH AND WEALTH
Salford faces a stark contrast between affluent neighborhoods enjoying better health and thriving economies, and low-wealth communities burdened by higher illness rates and shorter life expectancy. This divide highlights the urgent need for integrated approaches that address both economic opportunity and public health.
COLLABORATIVE INNOVATION FOR COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT
A city-wide initiative has brought together economic development and public health professionals to break down silos and work toward shared goals. The creation of the Salford Local Anchors Network analyzed supply chain spending, revealing over £10 million in annual opportunities to source goods and services from local social and co-operative enterprises. This insight has empowered young adults from low-wealth areas to co-produce new social businesses, enabling them to become direct suppliers to anchor institutions across public, private, and social sectors. These efforts demonstrate how collaboration can unlock new pathways for inclusive growth.
BUILDING WEALTH AND WELL-BEING FOR THE FUTURE
The success of this approach is shaping Salford’s future policies. Community wealth building is now embedded in the city’s Locality Plan for health and well-being, as well as the updated Salford Way strategy. This integration ensures that economic development and health initiatives continue to reinforce each other, driving sustained efforts to reduce inequalities and foster a more inclusive local economy. By engaging diverse partners and directly involving those from marginalized communities, Salford is pioneering a model that connects prosperity with health outcomes, inspiring long-term positive change.
