Supporting Q Connections

Applications are open for Supporting Q Connections; the funding programme for Q members to build and strengthen networks across the improvement landscape.

We also welcome applications that can demonstrate they have senior leadership support, as well as applications that have considered how their networks could be mainstreamed.

This programme follows on from previous Q funding programmes Connecting Q Locally and Supporting Local Learning, which are now closed.

• Design and development work to support embedding Q effectively into local organisational learning. For instance, using funding to organise co-design sessions with Q members on Q’s role in supporting learning. Or creating facilitation capacity to support connections between members.
• Convening Q members to contribute to local work. This could be an event where Q members are invited to rapidly collaborate and advise on a specific improvement challenge.
• Activities that support peer learning between Q members and other people working to improve health and care. For instance, funding for Communities of Practice, Action Learning Sets, or Open Space events.
• Convening people around specific areas of interest to enable applied learning, rather than general networking. For example, to sustain a Q group .
• Activities that build understanding and encourage uptake of promising interventions from the Q community. Such as an event to encourage wider engagement in a Q Exchange project or other promising intervention being developed by a local Q member. Or creation of a set of case studies or ideas that have emerged through Q members.
• Activities that encourage the spread of promising insights and interventions through Q members. For example, local events or a ​‘campaign’ to involve Q members in implementing the intervention.
• Interventions that help build the skills and knowledge needed locally for collaborative learning. Such as development sessions on the skills map or collaborative learning techniques.

You can find step-by-step instructions on how to apply for Supporting Q Connections in the applicant guidance, including how to use our online application portal.

Supporting Q Connections is a rolling programme, with quarterly funding periods. Q members can apply for funding at any time, but you must complete your application within the same quarterly period. 

• 1 January – 31 March
• 1 April – 30 June
• 1 July – 30 September
• 1 October – 31 December

Applications are independently assessed within eight weeks.

As part of the Health Foundation, Q’s funding programmes are accredited by the Living Wage Foundation.

If you would like to discuss your application or can’t find the answer to your questions in the applicant guidance, please get in touch.

Email: sqc@health.org.uk