How we are funded

ICBs plan and oversee how the majority of NHS money is spent in their and makes sure health services work well and are of high quality.

All Integrated Care Boards get a yearly budget allocation from NHS England, which decides how much each area receives. The amount is calculated using a national formula that looks at things like population size, age, deprivation, and local health needs, and  areas with greater needs get more.  

ICBs then use this money to plan and pay for most NHS services in their area, including hospitals, community services and GP services. 

ICBs don’t just get one lump sum — they receive different pots for different purposes, such as: 

  • Core NHS services (the bulk of their budget) 
  • Primary care medical services (e.g. GP contracts) 
  • Specialised services (some of these are now delegated to ICBs) 
  • Running costs (administration and staffing) 

Information about the specific allocations for all ICBs including information on the formulas used can be found on the NHS England website 

Find ICB allocations on the NHS England website
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