The High Impact Use (HIU) service funding is designed to help residents with complex needs access the right support while reducing their visits to hospital A&E departments by at least 40%.

Councillor Alison Whelan, chair of Communities, Social Mobility and Inclusion Committee at Cambridgeshire County Council, said: ‘The High Impact Use service shows what's possible when organisations work together to support residents in a more personalised and preventative way.

‘Many of the people supported by the service face complex challenges that cannot be resolved through healthcare interventions alone. By helping residents access the right support at the right time, we can improve outcomes for individuals, helping them live independently and create stronger ties, while also reducing demand on our hospitals and emergency services.

‘We're pleased to continue this important partnership with the ICB and build on the positive results already achieved.'

ICB analysis found health-related costs for an initial cohort of service users fell from an average of £18,333 per person per year to £3,401 per person per year following support from the service.

Cambridgeshire County Council remains the only local authority in the country to host a HIU service directly. The innovative model has attracted national recognition, including a visit from NHS England representatives who highlighted the service as a strong example of community-led practice. The service has also received an Outstanding Achievement Award from North West Anglia NHS Foundation Trust in recognition of its partnership approach.