Everyone seems to have a slightly different interpretation of what integration means. However, a common, unifying thread is the emphasis on organising care and support around the individual, rather than expecting individuals to navigate their way through a myriad of organisations and between the gaps that inevitably exist between them.

As a founding principle, this is a pretty sound one – as public services our primary focus should be on individuals and communities, not buildings and organisations. As individuals we want to know that when we or a member of our families need care and support, no matter how complex the needs, ‘the system’ – social care, doctors, nurses and local community organisations – will work together to provide the right care and support for us and our families.