Collaboration in Crediton: Mid-Devon Wellbeing Alliance

Across Mid Devon, people are coming together to make a real difference to the health and wellbeing of their communities. The Community Wellbeing Alliances are leading the way, bringing local organisations, volunteers, and statutory services around the same table. Finding better ways to support local people. Each alliance includes representatives from the NHS, local councils, charities, statutory services, voluntary groups, and community projects, all with one shared goal: to make sure services in Mid Devon truly meet the needs of the people who live in the area, especially those who may be struggling or vulnerable. Matt Merriam, DMHA’s Community Development Lead for Eastern Devon, attended last week’s Health and Wellbeing Alliance Meeting in Crediton.

Matt said “It was great to be able to be a part of the latest Health and Wellbeing Alliance Meeting in Crediton. In Eastern Devon, we have worked hard to develop system resilience by connecting these health and wellbeing alliance meetings with the One Eastern Devon Partnership Group. This has secured financial sustainability, provided development opportunities, and ensured the community's voice is heard by statutory providers. Over a dozen different organisations gathered together at The Boniface Centre to collaborate and partner together in improving the health outcomes for the people of Crediton.”

Matt continued, “If we really want to see mental health provision improve for the estimated 50,000 people in Devon struggling in the gap between primary and secondary care - these alliances are pivotal to that. Being in these conversations grows trust and helps bring empowerment to the web of health and wellbeing providers within an area.”

“Being in these conversations grows trust and helps bring empowerment to the web of health and wellbeing providers”

- Matt Merriam (Community Mental Health Development Lead for Eastern Devon, DMHA)

The alliances meet quarterly in each of the three main towns, Crediton, Tiverton, and Cullompton. From improving access to social care and mental health support, to linking residents with community groups and wellbeing activities, the alliances help services work together rather than in isolation. They also act as a collective voice for Mid Devon, helping to influence wider decisions that affect local people. By pooling knowledge, sharing resources, and keeping communication open, the Mid Devon Wellbeing Alliances are strengthening the safety net that supports our communities, ensuring help is available when and where it’s needed most.

Tamlyn Fraiquin (Project Manager, Involve) who has been facilitating the alliance meetings, stated “We all want the same thing, thriving, connected communities where everyone feels supported and valued. By working together, we can make sure no one is left behind.”

“By working together, we can make sure no one is left behind.”

- Tamlyn Fraquin (Project Manager, Involve Mid Devon)

For more information, or to find out how you or your organisation can get involved, please contact Tamlyn Fraiquin on Tamlyn@involve-middevon.org.uk

The Health and Wellbeing Alliance Meetings are facilitated by Involve who support community action and volunteering across Mid Devon. Visit Involve to learn more: https://involve-middevon.org.uk/