Six digital companies are to share £1.5m in WorkWell funding under a programme led by NHS North East and North Cumbria ICB in partnership with Health Innovation North East and North Cumbria (HI NENC), local councils and combined authorities, the Department for Work and Pensions, and voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations.

The North East and North Cumbria is one of only three areas in England to receive funding through the Government's Health and Growth Accelerator scheme.

Samantha Allen, chief executive, North East and North Cumbria ICB, said: ‘Supporting people to stay well and in work is a key priority for our region. These digital innovations will give people faster, easier access to help that can make a real difference to their health and daily lives. By working closely with our partners, we're using new technology to improve care, widen access, and make the best use of NHS resources for the benefit of our communities.'

The successful proposals are: online mental health platforms, Dr Julian, Tellmi and XR Therapeutics; digital physiotherapy-style service, Sword Health (Thrive); Virtual Menopause Clinics (Hartlepool and Stockton GP Federation); and Sunderland Integrated Musculoskeletal Service.

Dr Nicola Hutchinson, chief executive, HI NENC, said: ‘We are delighted to be backing six outstanding companies whose innovations have the potential to transform how people manage their health. This investment means we can bring proven, practical digital solutions into NHS services more quickly, helping people across our region to stay well, feel supported, and remain in work. It's a great example of how collaboration and innovation can drive real change.'

Lee Peart is editor of Hemming Group’s Healthcare Management magazine.