Community Champions

The Liverpool Community Champion Programme started during the Covid-19 pandemic. To increase vaccination uptake in underserved communities. The programme has since evolved to focus on broader health priorities for 2024/25. These include health promotion activity like vaccination uptake and blood pressure checks. The programme continues to be a cornerstone of public health in Liverpool. The community champions act as trusted peers between local populations and health services.​

Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) has recently undertaken an evaluation of the programme. The evaluation aimed to identify, evaluate, and share learning on what is working well in the existing model. The programme has proven exceptionally effective in engaging ethnically diverse and under-represented groups. In 2023/24, champions delivered over 700 events. Activities including vaccine pop-ups, health checks, and cancer awareness sessions. They facilitated more than 8,000 community engagements. Developed over 500 social media posts in multiple languages, ensuring health messages reach all corners of the city.​

The programme has had a significant impact on the community. Improving access to healthcare and breaking down barriers to services. Champions help to change perceptions about health and wellbeing. They alleviate fears and build trust across their peers. They enhance their own public health knowledge. Which they share within their communities and organisations. This creates a ripple effect that strengthens the health literacy of Liverpool’s population.​

Looking ahead, the programme aims to extend its reach by increasing the number of community champions. This may include thematic roles like dementia and youth-focused champions. They will also support communities to co-design solutions for their own health priorities.​