Master’s in Creative Health alumni launches the Community Diamond Network
In 2022, NCCH hosted our first UCL Master’s in Creative Health dissertation student, Katherine Liddell. Katherine’s research explored funding mechanisms that could help build sustainable partnerships between business, communities and health organisations, and helped NCCH to understand how this could support creative health. You can find a short report of these findings here.
After graduating, Katherine has built on this research, establishing a network of cross-sectoral partners working together towards a preventative health agenda.
In this blog, first published via the Health Equity Network, Katherine explains the approach in more detail. Link up with Katherine via the Health Equity Network to find out more.
Why We Are Building the Community Diamond Network: A Collaborative Approach to Community Health and Well-being
At the heart of the Community Diamond Network (CDN) lies a simple but transformative idea: collaboration can solve society's most pressing challenges. Traditional boundaries between sectors—business, government, academia, health and community organisations—often hinder progress. But by blurring these lines, we can create dynamic, sustainable solutions that benefit everyone.
The Power of Cross-Sector Collaboration
As highlighted in The Solution Revolution by Eggers and Macmillan, innovation thrives where sectors intersect. The emerging "solution economy" trades in unconventional currencies like social impact, expertise, and environmental value. This economy isn’t just about profit—it’s about creating scalable, impactful solutions through collaboration.
Key concepts such as "wavemakers"—individuals and organisations that connect diverse sectors—and "solution ecosystems" demonstrate how collaboration drives innovation. Imagine businesses investing in community health initiatives or local governments partnering with SMEs to improve public well-being. These models emphasise the importance of shifting perspectives, targeting gaps in service, and measuring what truly matters.
Engaging Diverse Stakeholders
Effective collaboration requires diverse participation. The Institute of Medicine (IOM) stresses involving non-health sectors—like urban planners, media, and community groups—to address chronic diseases. This multi-sector engagement increases the relevance, feasibility, and sustainability of health initiatives. By leveraging resources and sharing knowledge, collaborative networks can implement long-term, impactful strategies.
Our PSE (Policy, Systems, and Environmental) approach aligns with these principles, fostering partnerships across various sectors to build healthier communities.
Co-Creation and Community-Based Health Services
Co-creation is central to CDN's approach. Co-creation thrives when stakeholders work together to adapt and evolve programmes in real time. Unlike rigid frameworks, this method embraces complexity and local context, ensuring solutions are not only effective but also deeply integrated into the community.
However, successful co-creation isn’t easy. It requires robust governance, skilled facilitation, and conflict management. Power dynamics can complicate collaboration, especially when commercial or governmental interests are involved. Yet, when done right, co-creation fosters trust and strengthens relationships, leading to what experts call "partnership synergy"—a collective ability to make strategic decisions and share valuable data.
ESG: Beyond Traditional CSR
Today's businesses recognise that sustainability goes beyond traditional Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) frameworks offer a holistic view of a company's impact. For business, including SMEs, this means looking at social and environmental outcomes alongside financial performance. As research shows, understanding these impacts prevents fragmented efforts and unlocks opportunities for sustainable growth.
In the CDN, the business is not just a participant—it is a key driver of community health. By embedding ESG principles into their operations, they contribute to a larger ecosystem of well-being and resilience.
Building the Future Together
The Community Diamond Network aims to be more than just a platform—it’s a catalyst for change. By connecting businesses, community organisations, and health stakeholders, government and academia, we’re building an ecosystem where everyone can thrive. Creating solutions that are innovative, inclusive, and impactful. Together, we can bridge knowledge, share expertise, and build healthier futures for all.
