'National Evaluation of Partnerships for Older People Projects (POPP)' report

The final evaluation of the Partnerships for Older People projects (POPP) was delivered in early January 2010.

POPPs were funded by the Department of Health to develop services for older people, aimed at promoting their health, wellbeing and independence.

The evaluation found that:

• for every additional £1 spent on POPP services, there had been approximately a £1.20 additional benefit in savings from a reduction in hospital emergency bed days
• overnight hospital stays had been reduced by 47% and A&E use by 27%
• efficiency gains in health services use did not appear to have any adverse impact on social care service resources
• there was an improved quality of life for services users
• there was evidence of better local working relationships.