NAPC’s nationally recognised CHWW programme brings trusted local residents into paid roles supporting 120–150 households each, delivering prevention, early intervention and stronger community connections.
The programme provides strategic leadership, implementation support and a platform for national collaboration. We work closely with local systems to embed the CHWW model effectively, ensuring alignment with wider health and care priorities. Through training, resources and ongoing networking, NAPC equips CHWWs with the tools they need to build trust, reduce inequalities and activate communities from within. By capturing and sharing insights nationally, we help shape policy and scale the programme sustainably.
What are CHWWs?
Community Health and Wellbeing Workers (CHWWs) are trusted local residents employed to work hyper‑locally, visiting every household in their patch monthly. They build relationships, identify needs early and connect people to the right support before issues escalate.
They are:
- Proactive: knocking on every door
- Preventative: spotting risks early
- Personalised: supporting what matters to each household
- Integrated: working across health, care and community sectors
The model is adapted for the UK from the internationally successful Brazilian approach.
Joining NAPC’s Community of Practice gives sites a complete support package that makes adopting and delivering the CHWW model straightforward, consistent and high‑impact.
Join our Community of PracticeThe four core principles (CHUI)
CHWWs are recruited for character — empathy, cultural competence, persistence and trustworthiness — rather than formal qualifications.
Comprehensive
Holistic health and wellbeing support including health promotion, chronic disease support, social support and advocacy
Hyperlocal
Each CHWW serves 120-150 households (around 500 residents) in a defined locality where they also live.
Universal
Everyone in that geography is seen regularly regardless of need or selected characteristics, but help is proportionate to need.
Integrated
Fully integrated with the GP Practice and Local Authority and in the community.
Impact and pilot success
Westminster results:
47%
Increase in eligible immunisations
82%
Increase in cancer screening and NHS Health Checks
7.3%
Reduction in unscheduled GP consultations
60%
Sustained engagement with residents
Hidden issues uncovered: Suicidal ideation, child carers, domestic violence and intractable housing.
The model is now active in 25+ sites, with national recognition across the House of Lords inquiry, Fuller Stocktake, BBC News, New Local and more.
CHWW National Programme and Community of Practice
Joining NAPC’s Community of Practice gives sites a complete support package that makes adopting and delivering the CHWW model straightforward, consistent and high‑impact.
Membership includes:
- Access to our preferred providers: A trusted network supporting recruitment, supervision, evaluation, digital tools and more.
- A national peer support network: Connect with other CHWW sites to share learning, challenges and real‑world insights.
- Quarterly workshops: Themed sessions with national experts, implementers and frontline CHWWs.
- Resources for easy adoption and roll‑out: Tools, templates and guidance to help sites stay true to the model while adapting locally.
Standardised Training and the CHWW Apprenticeship
As part of the Community of Practice, sites gain access to NAPC’s standardised national education pathway, including a bespoke CHWW apprenticeship designed specifically for this role.
Built around real CHWW experience
- Developed with CHWWs, managers and early adopter sites, the apprenticeship reflects the real challenges of the job. Case studies and lived experience ensure training is practical, relevant and grounded in day‑to‑day reality.
Includes a Level 3 RSPH qualification
- The apprenticeship embeds a Level 3 Royal Society for Public Health certificate, giving CHWWs a recognised, accredited foundation in public health practice.
What the training covers
- Boundary setting and professional conduct
- Handling difficult conversations
- Coaching and behaviour‑change techniques
- Active listening and communication
- Safeguarding and risk awareness
- Navigating the NHS and local systems
- Population health principles
- Working with local assets and partners
- Case‑based learning from real CHWW experiences
This ensures every CHWW is prepared, supported and capable — and that the model is delivered consistently across all sites.
Join the CHWW Community of Practice
Be part of a national movement transforming prevention and neighbourhood care. To discuss joining the Community of Practice or implementing CHWWs in your area, contact us at: napc@napc.co.uk
