This research has captured learning from the Leeds Community Champions programme and appraised options for embedding a sustainable Champion model in Leeds that builds community capacity and contributes to reducing health inequalities. The Leeds Community Champions programme has been effective at engaging with, and reaching into, diverse communities at risk of experiencing significant health inequalities. In neighbourhoods and communities, Community Champions became those trusted messengers, able to have informal conversations and connect with others. Community Champions also provided flexible additional capacity to support and complement local organisations and projects. A strong partnership approach between statutory services and Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise (VCSE) organisations at all levels has been a major factor in the success of the programme. Overall, this flexible, responsive approach has helped services reach some of those communities with the greatest needs. Going forward, learning from the programme - on inclusive volunteering, on utilising the commitment and knowledge of Community Champions, on co-design and co-delivery - can be used to shape future action on health inequalities and help strengthen volunteering in the city.
ORCID: 
CORE (COnnecting REpositories)
CORE (COnnecting REpositories)