This week in Greater Manchester Combined Authority:

Environment Plan Progress and Heat Networks: GMCA Partnership Meeting Scheduled

The Greater Manchester 5 Year Environment Plan (5YEP) Partnership meeting was scheduled to take place on Friday 16 October 2026. The agenda included a comprehensive review of the 5 Year Environment Plan's progress, updates on solar energy initiatives, and the coordination of heat networks. Discussions were also planned around the GM Bee Net Zero initiative and the final outcomes of the Net Zero Accelerator programme.

Quarter 2 Progress and Challenge Report - 5 Year Environment Plan (5YEP)

The meeting was set to consider the Quarter 2 Progress and Challenge Report for the 5 Year Environment Plan (5YEP). This report, prepared by Mark Atherton, Director of Environment at GMCA, and Carly McLachlan, Director of Tyndall Manchester, was intended to provide an update on the Green City Region Portfolio for July to September 2026. It was expected to detail key progress across all areas of the 5 Year Environment Plan, assess challenges, and outline anticipated actions for the next quarter. The report recommended noting and commenting on the progress outlined and the latest positions set out in accompanying dashboards.

Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Vision and Programmes Update

A presentation by Daniel Dickinson, Low Carbon Policy Lead at GMCA, was scheduled to cover the Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Vision and Programmes Update. The ambition outlined was for Greater Manchester to become the UK's leading solar city-region, aiming to lower energy bills, reduce carbon emissions, foster local jobs and business growth, and ensure benefits for every community. The vision detailed strategic aims and scale, including a projected 6.9 GW of rooftop solar potential by 2038 and an additional renewable energy target of 375 MW by 2030. Specific programmes for homes, public buildings, schools, businesses, and community energy were to be discussed, alongside the delivery approach across these areas. Updates on the Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund, including supplementary solar and battery funding, and a plug-in solar pilot were also scheduled. The Powering our Schools initiative, which had supported installations on 15 schools in Phase 1, was to be presented, along with plans for Phase 2 and a Solar Accelerator pilot.

GM Heat Network Zone Co-ordination Body

Sarah Holland, Programme & Policy Lead Energy at GMCA, was scheduled to present a report on the GM Heat Network Zone Co-ordination Body (ZCB). Heat networks, which supply heating and hot water to multiple buildings from a central source, became a regulated utility in January 2026. Heat network zones are intended to identify areas where these networks offer the most cost-effective low-carbon heating solution. The report was expected to share progress on proposals covering ZCB governance, legal structure, resourcing, and approvals, ahead of GMCA key decisions in November 2026 and planned establishment in April 2027. The report highlighted the potential for heat networks to attract up to £5bn of infrastructure investment and decarbonise up to 25% of the city region's heat demand. The role of the ZCB in zone refinement, designation, developer selection, and ongoing operations was to be detailed.

GM Bee Net Zero (BNZ) Update

Tom Addison, Low Carbon Economy Principal at GMCA, was scheduled to provide an update on GM Bee Net Zero (BNZ). The update was expected to cover the new BNZ website, the development of the BNZ Community platform, and the strategic choice between broader business engagement or a focused place-based model for industrial decarbonisation. Future priorities for BNZ were also to be discussed, including business engagement, industrial decarbonisation, low carbon sector and supply chains, green skills, and cross-cutting reporting. The partnership was asked to provide feedback on these priorities and BNZ's role in delivering the 5YEP.

Net Zero Accelerator - Final Outputs

Dan Griffiths, Head of Low Carbon Policy at GMCA, was scheduled to present the final outputs of the Net Zero Accelerator programme. This programme, running from April 2024 to September 2026, aimed to mobilise private investment into Greater Manchester's net zero pipeline. The report was expected to detail the programme's delivery and key findings, including new delivery and finance models, a £7bn investment pipeline, and £1bn in immediate delivery projects. Key findings highlighted the need for grant, subsidy, or blended finance for over 50% of the GM pipeline, the necessity of neighbourhood, borough, and regional scales for delivery, and the critical role of anchor off-takers for heat networks. The report also detailed the programme's partners and structure, including workstreams on asset class viability analysis, bundling frameworks, and the three accelerators: Project, Innovation, and Places. The final outputs included the GM Local Authority Net Zero Delivery Playbook and the GM Net Zero Investor Prospectus.

Sustainable Consumption and Production (SCP) Schools Programmes

Tina Buglosi, Environment Policy Officer (Behaviour Change) at GMCA, and Eleanor Carter, Programme Support Officer [Sustainable Consumption and Production], were scheduled to present on the SCP Schools Programmes. The presentation aimed to highlight how schools can lead on environmental sustainability. The School Eco Refill Shop Programme has funded 44 schools, with Wave 3 involving 19 schools, resulting in significant reductions in plastic waste. The Eco Grants for Schools Programme provides micro-grants for pupil-led sustainability projects, with 44 awards made in Round 2. A new Bee Loved Fashion Schools programme was also to be introduced, focusing on textile waste, repair, and upcycling skills. The partnership was asked to note the update report.

GM Climate Adaptation Strategy and Action Plan

Alice Johnson, Senior Policy and Partnership Officer at GMCA, was scheduled to present the final draft Greater Manchester Climate Adaptation Strategy and Action Plan. This strategy outlines how Greater Manchester will respond to the growing risks and impacts of climate change, aiming to minimise impacts on communities' health and wellbeing, enhance ecosystem resilience, and ensure infrastructure and the built environment are resilient. The plan is informed by the GM Climate Change Risk Assessment and aligns with the Greater Manchester Strategy. The partnership was requested to consider and comment on the report and endorse the strategy for approval by GMCA.

• Impact: These discussions are crucial for shaping Greater Manchester's response to climate change. The 5 Year Environment Plan and related initiatives aim to create a greener, healthier region, which will benefit all residents. However, the focus on adaptation strategies is particularly important for vulnerable communities who may be disproportionately affected by extreme weather events and environmental changes.

• Learn More: You can find more details about these discussions in the Greater Manchester 5 Year Environment Plan (5YEP) Partnership meeting papers.

Greater Manchester Joint Health Scrutiny Committee Meeting Cancelled

The Greater Manchester Joint Health Scrutiny Committee meeting, originally scheduled for Tuesday 13 October 2026, was cancelled.

This week in Greater Manchester Combined Authority:

£61 Million Investment Proposed for Housing and Regeneration Projects

The GMCA Investment Sub-Committee was scheduled to consider significant investment proposals totalling £61 million for three key regeneration and housing projects across Greater Manchester. These proposals, part of the Good Growth Fund, aim to deliver new homes and commercial spaces, but rely on GMCA funding to proceed.

Whitworth Street West, Manchester: New Homes on Brownfield Site

A £17 million equity investment was proposed for the Whitworth Street West development in Manchester. This project aims to construct 364 new apartments for rent on a brownfield site. The developer, Glenbrook WWS Limited, and investor partner, M&G, are involved. The scheme is designed to meet high environmental standards, including an Energy Performance Certificate 'B' rating and low-carbon technologies. Crucially, the report indicated that the scheme would not be viable without GMCA funding, and the investment would accelerate its construction. Manchester City Council's Planning Committee had previously indicated approval, subject to a S106 agreement.

Trafford Wharf, Trafford: Accelerating Housing Delivery

The committee was also scheduled to consider a £26 million equity investment for the Trafford Wharf project in Trafford. This development plans to deliver 382 new apartments for rent as part of the Old Trafford Regeneration Mayoral Development Corporation's plans. The delivery partners are Heim UK Residential Fund and Cole Waterhouse. Similar to the Manchester project, this scheme is noted as not being viable without GMCA funding, with the investment intended to speed up construction. Full planning permission has already been granted for this project.

Wingates, Bolton: Commercial Space for Logistics

A £18.1 million loan was proposed for the Wingates scheme in Westhoughton, Bolton. This project focuses on delivering 166,450 sq ft of commercial floorspace, primarily for logistics. The developer, Harworth Estates, aims for the scheme to be net-zero carbon ready and achieve BREEAM Excellent and Energy Performance Certificate 'A' standards. While the industrial and logistics market is considered resilient, the scheme still faces viability challenges that the GMCA loan would address. Reserved Matters planning approval has been secured from Bolton City Council.

For all three schemes, the GMCA investment would involve a subsidy, and assessments were carried out to ensure compliance with the Subsidy Control Act 2022. The agenda also included a request for delegated authority for the Group Chief Financial Officer and GMCA Monitoring Officer to finalise due diligence and approve legal agreements.

• Impact: These proposed investments are designed to unlock significant housing and commercial development that would otherwise not proceed. For residents, this could mean more homes available for rent, new job opportunities in the logistics sector, and the regeneration of brownfield sites. However, the reliance on GMCA funding highlights the challenges in the current economic climate for developers and the importance of public investment in achieving regional growth objectives.

• Learn More: You can find more details about these proposed investments in the GMCA Investment Sub-Committee meeting papers.

Good Growth Fund Update: Portfolio Performance and Challenges

The GMCA Investment Sub-Committee was also scheduled to receive an update on the overall progress and status of the Good Growth Fund. This fund, which has allocated over £1 billion to various projects, aims to support housing, transport, innovation, employment, and regeneration. The update was expected to provide an overview of the fund's investment approach, governance, and the current status of its portfolio.

The report indicated that the fund has faced challenges, including increased funding requirements due to rising costs and difficulties in securing private capital for some schemes. This context underscores the importance of the proposed investments discussed above, as they aim to address these very viability issues.

• Impact: Understanding the performance of the Good Growth Fund provides insight into how public money is being used to drive development across Greater Manchester. Challenges faced by the fund can highlight broader economic pressures affecting the region and the types of support needed to ensure projects come to fruition.

• Learn More: Further details on the Good Growth Fund update can be found in the GMCA Investment Sub-Committee meeting papers.

This week in Greater Manchester Combined Authority:

£168 Million Boost for Growth: Good Growth Fund Allocations to Drive Regeneration and Housing

The Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) met on Friday 25 September 2026, approving a significant £168.31 million package of investments from the Good Growth Fund (GGF). This funding is set to fuel a range of transformational projects across the region, from vital transport infrastructure to the delivery of much-needed homes and cutting-edge innovation.

The GGF, a cornerstone of Greater Manchester's strategy to foster inclusive economic development, will see substantial allocations directed towards:

• Transport Projects: £52.7 million will support four key growth initiatives, including the regeneration of Bury Mill Gate (£24.7m), the first phase of the Salford Crescent Zone (£9.9m), the MIX Manchester Phase 1 Mobility Hub (£16.1m), and the Manchester Cyan Line CL5a (£2.5m). These projects are designed to improve connectivity and support economic activity.
• City Densification Fund: £49.8 million is earmarked for new housing developments. This includes £21.8 million for the 'No. 1 Lord Street' project in Manchester and up to £28 million for the ambitious Victoria North regeneration programme, aiming to create vibrant new neighbourhoods.
• Innovation Projects: £25.69 million will bolster innovation across the region, supporting Qiagen Precision Diagnostics (£4.85m) in Manchester, FUSE-M at Manchester Metropolitan University (£16m), and ICCCIE at the University of Salford (£4.84m). These investments are crucial for driving future economic growth and creating high-skilled jobs.
• Social and Affordable Housing: £3.96 million has been allocated for the Robert Hall Street development in Salford, specifically to deliver social and affordable homes. This commitment directly addresses the region's housing crisis and aims to provide secure and affordable options for residents. A previous allocation of £0.35m for the Park Pub scheme in Wythenshawe was also noted.
• Housing Subsidised Loan: £19 million has been allocated for the New Islington 3B development in Manchester, further supporting the delivery of new homes.

The meeting also highlighted the launch of a new GGF partnership approach with housing providers, signalling a strengthened commitment to social and affordable housing delivery. Updates on existing GGF projects were provided, alongside noted amendments to previous allocations, including increases for Stockport 8 (£2.8m) and Adelphi Village (£16.2m), and a decrease for Princes Gate Phase 2 in Oldham (£21.1m).

Mayor Bev Craig emphasised the fund's role in ensuring every borough felt the benefits, stating that without such intervention, these investments would not materialise. City Mayor Paul Dennett underscored the GGF's commitment to inclusive growth, balancing social, economic, and environmental aspirations. He highlighted that since February 2026, £110 million has already been approved to build approximately 900 homes, with 847 at social rents, demonstrating a tangible impact on tackling the housing crisis.

• Impact: These significant investments are designed to create jobs, improve infrastructure, and deliver much-needed housing. For residents, this could mean better transport links, more affordable homes, and access to cutting-edge facilities. The focus on social and affordable housing is particularly vital for vulnerable groups, offering greater security and stability.

• Learn More: Read the full details of the Good Growth Fund allocations in the Greater Manchester Combined Authority meeting papers.

Four New Mayoral Development Corporations to Spearhead Regeneration

In a move to accelerate regeneration across key areas, the GMCA approved the designation of four new Mayoral Development Corporations (MDCs). Following public consultations, these MDCs will focus on driving development and investment in specific localities:

• Oldham Mayoral Development Corporation: This MDC will concentrate on regenerating Oldham town centre, with a focus on health, sports science, and innovation. The consultation showed strong support, with over 80% of respondents welcoming the plans.
• Ashton & Stalybridge Mayoral Development Corporation: This MDC will spearhead transport-led regeneration in the Ashton and Stalybridge Gateway area, aiming to create thousands of jobs and deliver new housing. Councillor McClaren highlighted the strategic advantage of Ashton being just nine minutes from Manchester city centre by train.
• Middleton Co-operative Mayoral Development Corporation: This MDC will focus on bringing forward new development opportunities in Middleton.
• Bolton Town Centre Mayoral Development Corporation: This MDC is tasked with the regeneration of Bolton town centre.

The approval of these MDCs signifies a commitment to targeted, place-based regeneration, empowering local areas to drive their own growth agendas.

• Impact: MDCs are powerful tools for concentrating investment and expertise on specific regeneration sites. For residents in these areas, this could mean revitalised town centres, new job opportunities, improved amenities, and a boost to local economies.

• Learn More: Discover the details of the proposed Mayoral Development Corporations in the Greater Manchester Combined Authority meeting papers.

Tackling Rough Sleeping: £16.95 Million Secured for A Bed Every Night Expansion

A critical discussion at the GMCA meeting focused on the ongoing efforts to tackle rough sleeping. The Authority noted the allocation of £16.95 million in additional national funding to support and expand the A Bed Every Night initiative. This funding is crucial for providing immediate shelter and support to those experiencing homelessness.

The funding will be allocated across 2026/27 and 2027/28, with a focus on ensuring that no one has to sleep rough in Greater Manchester. The report highlighted the complexity of tackling homelessness, citing factors such as accelerated asylum processes, no-fault evictions, and the impact of reforms to the Right to Buy scheme.

City Mayor Paul Dennett, a strong advocate for tackling homelessness, described it as a moral mission. He emphasised the need for a multi-agency approach, working with health services, housing providers, and voluntary organisations to provide wraparound support, including mental health and addiction services. The funding aims to build on existing successes, such as the Housing First programme and the Homelessness Inclusion Health Service.

• Impact: This significant funding injection is vital for providing immediate relief and long-term solutions for individuals experiencing homelessness. For those most vulnerable, it means access to safe accommodation, essential support services, and a pathway towards stability and recovery.

• Learn More: Find out more about the strategy and funding for tackling rough sleeping in the Greater Manchester Combined Authority meeting papers.

Bee Network Performance: Punctuality Holds Strong, but Rail Services Face Challenges

The Bee Network Committee met on Thursday 24 September 2026, receiving an update on the performance of Greater Manchester's integrated transport system. The Bee Network, which aims to create a London-style public transport system, showed resilience in key areas, though challenges remain.

Key Performance Highlights:

• Bus Punctuality: For the seventh consecutive month, bus punctuality remained above target, demonstrating the network's reliability.
• Zero-Emission Buses: One in three buses operating on large franchises are now zero-emission, with further progress on depot electrification.
• Metrolink Punctuality: Metrolink services also performed above target.
• Bee Network Cycle Hire: Usage saw a significant 19% year-on-year increase.

However, the report noted a decline in rail performance across operators serving Greater Manchester, attributed to external incidents and operator-related issues. Road network performance remained stable, with journey times and reliability in line with seasonal expectations, though road traffic levels are growing.

The committee also discussed progress on the Vision Zero strategy, aiming to reduce road casualties.

• Impact: Reliable and efficient public transport is essential for residents' daily lives, impacting their ability to get to work, education, and essential services. While bus and Metrolink services are performing well, the challenges in rail services could lead to increased disruption and longer journey times for commuters. The push towards zero-emission buses is a positive step for environmental sustainability.

• Learn More: For a comprehensive overview of the Bee Network's performance, see the Bee Network Committee meeting papers.

Other Matters

GMCA Overview & Scrutiny Committee Holds Annual Business Meeting

The GMCA Overview & Scrutiny Committee met on Thursday 24 September 2026 for its annual business meeting. The committee appointed its Chair and reviewed its membership and terms of reference. A key item was the GMCA Overview & Scrutiny Committee Annual Report for 2025/26 and its Work Programme and Forward Plan of Key Decisions, ensuring continued oversight of the Combined Authority's activities.

• Learn More: Details of the committee's annual business can be found in the GMCA Overview & Scrutiny Committee meeting papers.

Waste and Recycling Committee Reviews Contract Performance and Community Funding

The Greater Manchester Waste & Recycling Committee met on Thursday 24 September 2026. The committee reviewed contract performance, noting a combined recycling rate of approximately 46% for the year. Discussions also covered budget updates, the Sustainable Consumption and Production Plan, and the introduction of 'soft' checks at Household Waste Recycling Centres to ensure they are used by Greater Manchester residents. Shortlisted projects for the Community Fund were also approved.

• Impact: Decisions on waste and recycling directly affect the local environment and the cost of services. The focus on community funding and sustainable consumption aims to engage residents in waste reduction efforts.

• Learn More: Read the full report from the Greater Manchester Waste & Recycling Committee.

Greater Manchester Integrated Care Partnership Board Discusses Health Services and Patient Voice

The Greater Manchester Integrated Care Partnership Board met on Friday 25 September 2026. Key discussions included an update on the Northern Care Alliance's improvement journey, with assurances provided on commitment to safe, high-quality care. The Board also explored options for maintaining continuity of independent patient and public voice services amidst national uncertainty regarding Healthwatch. An update on Neighbourhood Health initiatives, focused on preventative and proactive care, was also presented.

• Impact: These discussions are crucial for ensuring the quality and accessibility of healthcare services. The focus on patient voice and neighbourhood health aims to improve patient experience and outcomes, particularly for vulnerable individuals.

• Learn More: Details of the Integrated Care Partnership Board's discussions can be found in the Greater Manchester Integrated Care Partnership Board meeting papers.

This week in Greater Manchester Combined Authority:

Police and Fire Finances Under Strain: GMP Faces Significant Overspend, GMFRS Balances Budget

The Greater Manchester Police, Fire and Crime Panel met on Wednesday 16 September 2026, confronting significant financial challenges facing the region's emergency services. While the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) reported a balanced budget, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) is forecasting a substantial £9.8 million overspend for the 2026/27 financial year.

GMP's Financial Pressures

The projected overspend at GMP is largely attributed to increased pay costs, particularly overtime, and pressures in custody and contact centre operations. The panel heard that GMP received the second-lowest percentage increase in core grant funding nationally, making budget setting incredibly difficult.

Councillor Dan Oliver raised concerns about the potential for GMP to bid for Exceptional Financial Support (EFS) from the Home Office, describing such support as a payday loan for councils due to the significant conditions often attached. Deputy Mayor Kate Green acknowledged these concerns, stating that the offer of EFS was unsatisfactory and assumed poor financial management, which she refuted. The fundamental issue, she argued, was an insufficient national funding formula that disadvantages metropolitan forces like GMP.

The panel was assured that remedial actions are being taken to mitigate GMP's financial pressures, including strengthened overtime management and workforce controls. However, the Deputy Mayor warned that without adequate funding, maintaining current service standards could be compromised, potentially leading to reductions in service quality.

The panel also noted the significant additional demands placed on GMP by events such as the arrival of No. 10 North in the city region and the ongoing security costs associated with protecting the Jewish community during high holy days. Lobbying efforts are underway to secure proper recognition of GMP's demand levels and funding pressures from the Home Office.

• Impact: The projected overspend at GMP could lead to difficult choices regarding resource allocation, potentially impacting frontline policing and response times. For residents, this could mean longer waits for police assistance or a reduced visible police presence in their communities. Vulnerable groups, who often rely heavily on police support, could be disproportionately affected.

• Learn More: Read the full financial update in the Greater Manchester Police, Fire and Crime Panel meeting papers.

GMFRS Reports Balanced Budget Amidst Operational Demands

In contrast to GMP, the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) is forecasting a balanced financial position for 2026/27. This is despite pressures from pay and price inflation, increased capital financing charges, and operational cost pressures. Underspends on employee-related costs and reprofiling of capital projects have helped to offset these pressures.

The GMFRS also presented its Productivity and Efficiency Plan for 2026/27, outlining how it will continue to improve productivity and deliver efficiency savings. Productivity improvements are being driven through operational and workforce changes, prevention and protection initiatives, and digital transformation. The service has also seen significant collaboration benefits through shared estates and services.

The panel received updates on the implementation of recommendations from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 report, with significant progress reported. The Greater Manchester Local Remediation Acceleration Plan is also progressing, with confirmed government funding.

• Impact: While GMFRS's balanced budget is positive news, the ongoing pressures highlight the challenging financial landscape for public services. The successful implementation of Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommendations and the Remediation Acceleration Plan are crucial for ensuring the safety of residents in high-rise buildings, particularly those with existing vulnerabilities.

• Learn More: Details on GMFRS's financial performance and plans can be found in the Greater Manchester Police, Fire and Crime Panel meeting papers.

NHS Reform and Adult Social Care: Committee Reviews Workforce Changes and CQC Ratings

The Greater Manchester Joint Health Scrutiny Committee met on Tuesday 15 September 2026, addressing significant changes within NHS Greater Manchester and the performance of adult social care services. The committee heard about the ongoing reform and workforce programme within the NHS, as well as the latest Care Quality Commission (CQC) assessments of adult social care provision across the region.

NHS Greater Manchester Reform and Workforce Programme

Charlotte Bailey, Chief Strategy, People and Partnerships Officer for NHS Greater Manchester, presented an update on the organisation's reform and workforce programme. Phase one, focused on redesigning the organisation and restructuring teams, is nearing completion. The programme has aimed to minimise compulsory redundancies, with voluntary redundancies and role matching processes implemented.

An equality impact assessment indicated no disproportionate adverse impact on protected groups, with an increase observed in colleagues with disabilities and Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic representation within the organisation. Phase two will focus on embedding new roles, developing relationships, and supporting individual funding requests and population health initiatives.

Councillor Sangita Patel raised concerns about the impact of these changes on work culture and staff morale. Ms. Bailey acknowledged that periods of significant change inevitably affect staff but highlighted ongoing efforts through surveys, briefings, and wellbeing support to monitor and address staff sentiment. The impact on service delivery is being managed through a planned business continuity light period.

Concerns about employee relationships and potential legal challenges were also discussed. Ms. Bailey explained that new ways of working and matrix structures could impact employee relationships, while legal challenges are being mitigated by ensuring statutory duties are covered. Extensive engagement with professional bodies and trade unions has been undertaken.

• Impact: These organisational changes within the NHS could have a direct impact on how services are delivered and accessed by residents. Staff morale and capacity are crucial for maintaining the quality of care. For vulnerable individuals who rely on consistent and compassionate healthcare, any disruption or reduction in service capacity could lead to longer waiting times or a diminished care experience.

• Learn More: Read the full update on the NHS reform programme in the Greater Manchester Joint Health Scrutiny Committee meeting papers.

Adult Social Care: CQC Assessments Reveal Varied Performance

Rachel Tanner, Chair of GM ADASS and Director of Adult Social Services at Bolton Council, presented an update on the CQC assessments of adult social care provision. Wigan received an Outstanding rating, while most other local authorities were rated Good. However, Tameside and Trafford were rated Requires Improvement, and Salford was rated Inadequate.

Assessing need was identified as a consistent area requiring improvement across Greater Manchester and nationally. Variations in ratings were often linked to local models and approaches, such as the delegation of statutory duties. Salford has established a monthly Improvement Board to address its Inadequate rating, with significant financial investment approved for transformation over the next two years.

Wigan's exceptionally low staff turnover of 7% was highlighted as a potential area for learning, attributed to stable leadership, a positive culture, and staff feeling valued. The significant investment in community capacity in Wigan, totalling £14 million since 2014, has supported neighbourhood home care, prevention, and reablement services, contributing to its outstanding rating and reduced long-term care usage.

• Impact: The CQC ratings provide a crucial insight into the quality of adult social care services. An Inadequate rating in Salford, and Requires Improvement in Tameside and Trafford, raise serious concerns about the support available to some of the region's most vulnerable residents. This could mean longer waits for essential care, a lower quality of support, and increased pressure on families who may need to step in. The success of Wigan's approach, particularly its investment in community capacity and prevention, offers a potential model for other areas struggling to meet demand.

• Learn More: Explore the CQC assessment data in the Greater Manchester Joint Health Scrutiny Committee meeting papers.

Paediatric Audiology Services Under Review: Look-Back Clinics Conclude, Service Specification Developed

The Greater Manchester Joint Health Scrutiny Committee also received an update on paediatric audiology services. Following quality visits across all Greater Manchester services, three services – Withington (Manchester University Foundation Trust), Salford (Northern Care Alliance), and Wigan Wrightington and Leigh (WWL) – identified the need for look back reviews, where children are recalled for reassessment. Stockport Foundation Trust's services remain largely paused, with a phased reopening planned for October 2026, supported by an independent sector provider.

The look back clinics for Withington, Salford, and Wigan were expected to conclude by December 2026, with no significant harms identified to date. A Greater Manchester Service Specification is being co-produced to ensure equitable access to services, with a business case for a new model of care to be developed as part of a wider review of children's community services.

Causes of misdiagnosis were noted as multifactorial, including issues with estate and equipment, varying professional competency routes, and differing audit processes. The development of a national service specification and pursuit of UCAS accreditation are expected to address these issues.

• Impact: The review of paediatric audiology services is critical for ensuring that children with hearing impairments receive timely and accurate diagnoses. Delays or misdiagnoses can have significant long-term consequences for a child's development, education, and social interaction. The co-production of a new service specification and business case aims to ensure equitable access and improve the quality of care across Greater Manchester, benefiting children and their families who rely on these vital services.

• Learn More: Find more details on the paediatric audiology review in the Greater Manchester Joint Health Scrutiny Committee meeting papers.

Other Matters

Service Reconfigurations and Public Consultation

The Greater Manchester Joint Health Scrutiny Committee also received an update on service reconfigurations, including specialist cardiac and vascular surgery. Public consultations for these services are ongoing, with feedback indicating broad support for centralising specialist cardiac surgery at Wythenshawe Hospital, though concerns about travel and capacity were raised. For specialist vascular surgery, there is higher concern about the potential loss of services from Royal Oldham Hospital, with similar issues regarding travel and public transport. Decisions on these reconfigurations are not expected until early 2027.

• Impact: Decisions on service reconfigurations can significantly affect accessibility to specialist healthcare. Centralising services, while potentially improving quality, can create barriers for patients who face long travel times or difficulties with public transport, disproportionately impacting older residents or those with mobility issues.

• Learn More: Details on the service reconfiguration progress report can be found in the Greater Manchester Joint Health Scrutiny Committee meeting papers.