Rt Hon Anne Milton Launches our groundbreaking Social Impact Report

Yesterday, we welcomed Rt Hon Anne Milton, Engagement Director at The Purpose Coalition, to officially launch a new report highlighting our commitment and journey so far to improving conditions and reducing health inequalities in our communities.

The report, developed in partnership with The Purpose Coalition, maps out our activities against the Purpose Goals, which set out the key barriers to opportunity and help organisations assess their social impact on patients, staff, and the wider community. It comprehensively analyses our commitment to broader social factors like employment, education, equality and diversity, which contribute to social mobility and opportunity. It also makes recommendations for future action.

The launch event, held online with over 120 staff and at our Littlebrook site in Dartford, Kent, brought together staff and teams to discuss how we are breaking down barriers to opportunity, improving mental health services, and creating long-term sustainable impact across Kent and Medway.

Kindra Hyttner, our Director of Communications and Engagement, said: "This report isn't just numbers or words on a page; it's a testament to the real, tangible difference we're making in people's lives. We know health is about more than medicine and care. It's about community. It's about recognising that the fabric of our lives – our homes, jobs, backgrounds, and access to education – profoundly shapes our wellbeing. By embracing our role as an 'anchor institution' within local areas, we're not just treating symptoms but tackling the root causes of inequality, building a healthier, more equitable future for everyone.

"As we look to the future, I am excited by the opportunities to enhance our partnerships through the Purpose Coalition and amplify our social impact even more. This report establishes our crucial influence in advancing health and fostering meaningful social mobility. Also, it acknowledges how much more we can and will do to help transform living into living well for our communities."

Key highlights from the report

• Community Anchor – The report outlines how we, one of the region's largest employers, play a critical role in delivering social value beyond healthcare, particularly in education, skills development, and economic opportunity.
• Health Inequalities & Social Mobility – It highlights our initiatives to level up access to healthcare, focusing on the region's most disadvantaged communities.
• Workforce Development – Our recruitment, training, and apprenticeship programmes are recognised for supporting local talent and widening access to healthcare careers.
• Strategic Partnerships – Our collaboration with The Purpose Coalition and other regional organisations to develop policy-driven solutions for systemic health and social inequalities.

Speaking at the launch, Rt Hon Anne Milton said:

"This report shines a light on the vital role KMPT plays in improving health outcomes and creating social impact. The work being done here is a model for how NHS organisations can drive meaningful change beyond clinical care—through workforce development, partnerships, and community-led initiatives. This is about real action that makes a difference."

The visit also included a discussion on the next steps, focusing on expanding the outreach programmes, fostering partnerships with key stakeholders, and implementing the report's recommendations.