Two pioneering projects designed to enhance NHS Talking Therapies services in Birmingham and Solihull have secured national funding, marking a significant step forward in improving access and outcomes for local communities.

All four NHS Talking Therapies providers in the region were invited to pitch their ideas in a ‘Dragons’ Den’-style challenge, presenting innovative proposals to a panel and demonstrating how their projects would drive improvements in accessibility, inclusivity, efficiency, and productivity.

From eight bids submitted, two standout projects have been awarded funding:

  • Health Inequalities Programme
    An 18-month initiative focused on improving access for Black men, a group currently underrepresented in Talking Therapies services. The programme aims to tackle barriers and ensure more equitable mental health support.
  • Neurodiverse Youth Pathway
    A dedicated pathway for young people aged 11–25 accessing youth counselling services. This project will deliver tailored group sessions and one-to-one interventions for neurodiverse individuals, ensuring support meets their unique needs.

Tom Hancock, Community Senior Commissioner and Transformation Manager for the provider collaborative, said:
“This approach was more than just allocating funds. It created an opportunity for providers and commissioners to connect, share ideas, and learn from each other. The healthy competition encouraged innovation and kept service users and underserved communities at the heart of every proposal.”

Olivia Jones, Psychological Therapist for Birmingham Healthy Minds and lead for the health inequalities programme, added:
“It was a fantastic experience that allowed creativity and innovation to flourish, all while staying focused on enhancing patient care and supporting the communities we serve.”