The 2024 Directions establish comprehensive changes to funding mechanisms and expand the scope of available grants for GP practices. It is long awaited flexibility but will it be effective on the ground?

They also offer enhanced flexibility for practices through reduced abatement requirements and modified guaranteed use periods. Be prepared to understand and guide your clients in this respect.

This comes in the form of both potential for increased funding together with a broader scope of grants.

Commissioners now have the authority to award grants covering up to 100% of project value. However, actual funding availability will depend on local budgets and competing priorities. Early discussion with ICB contacts will be essential and doubtless offerings will vary tremendously.

Grant funding now extends to land purchases and tenant fit-out works. However, practices should thoroughly evaluate the approval processes and long-term commitments before proceeding with applications.

• Single application process – while applications are consolidated under the 2024 Directions, practices should prepare for possible complexities during the transition period
• Clearer payment procedures – although the Directions establish improved payment procedures, implementation may vary by region and commissioner interpretation

Commissioners can now assist GPs in planning for retirement, although finding suitable new partners to take over practices remains challenging. We have begun to see some innovative approaches but, equally to date, a number of examples of lack of support have been somewhat disappointing for practices. Conversations with commissioners are always worth having and attitude to potential practice cessation will of course vary depending on geographical circumstance and surrounding primary care provision.

The new powers are designed to facilitate practice handovers but their effectiveness will depend on available local support and resources.

1. Improved access – the 2024 Directions enable practices to enhance their infrastructure, resulting in better access to healthcare services for patients
2. Enhanced patient experience – investments in facilities will enhance the patient experience, creating a more comfortable and welcoming environment to patients
3. Sustainable practice – the Directions promote the long-term sustainability of GP practices by enabling them to adapt to evolving healthcare demands

The reality is practices will face:

1. Strategic planning challenges – while the 2024 Directions present opportunities for strategic planning, practices may face significant resource constraints and uncertainty during implementation
2. Limited investment reality – despite promising funding opportunities, practices should carefully consider the practical limitations of available budgets and potential restrictions on fund utilisation
3. Partnership complexities – although collaborative partnerships are encouraged, the reality of co-ordinating among different healthcare providers while navigating bureaucratic hurdles may prove more challenging than anticipated

1. Review the directions – carefully review the 2024 Directions to understand the new funding guidelines and application processes
2. Assess opportunities – identify potential opportunities for investment and growth, focusing on areas that address the specific needs of a practice and its patients
3. Plan and submit – develop a comprehensive investment plan and submit applications for funding, ensuring alignment with the new Directions. Be prepared for the appeals process if necessary.

In summary, the onus of responsibility for such applications rests with the client but, as advisors, we should get involved in the advisory around the financial and tax implications of any projects.