Posted on: 25 November 2025
The latest Octopus summit in Westminster was a special one. It marked the Octopus’ third birthday and the first time CNWL co-hosted the event alongside Healthcare Central London.
Octopus is a community-led model connecting NHS, local authorities, and voluntary organisations to tackle inequality and make sure support reaches those who need it most. It started three years ago in a library and has grown into a vibrant neighbourhood network. A “yellow pages of Westminster” for health and wellbeing.
We host quarterly Octopus summits where teams come together to share ideas and solve problems. At this latest session, Ross Graves, Chief Strategy and Digital Officer, opened the event.
“Octopus is about building care around communities, not the other way around. As part of Community Services Month, we’re proud to share these stories that show the NHS at the heart of local life.”
CNWL colleagues also shared updates from across our patch – from outreach in food banks to co-producing a community allotment – showing our partnerships in action.
Gina Casserly, Community Development and Engagement Lead for our Talking Therapies service in Westminster, spoke about building trust.
“Partnership working takes time. By being consistent and flexible, we’ve built strong relationships with organisations like food banks and youth centres. That means we can meet people where they are, have those first reassuring conversations, and break down barriers. It’s about being present in the community, not just in clinical settings, creating spaces where people feel comfortable.”
Sarah Peel, Head Occupational Therapist and Lead for Kensington, Chelsea and Westminster Mental Health Community Rehabilitation, shared how co-production has shaped a community space at Woodfield Road.
“We wanted this space to be shaped by the community, and that led to gardening groups, cooking sessions, and even a men’s group. Friendships have formed, and people feel part of something. Rain or shine, the core group keeps going. It’s not just an NHS project; we’re linking up with other community initiatives, so it feels open and inclusive.”
The day ended with a lively panel discussion featuring borough leaders, including Lucy Cook, Borough Director Mental Health Services in Westminster, reflecting on what’s working and how we can keep building on this collaborative approach.
