The diagnosis then, as now, was that our problem was not quality or efficiency but our ability to effectively meet the rising demand of a largely ageing and affluent population. Chris urged us to take action and to learn the lessons of integration from around the world, particularly the experiences in Canterbury, New Zealand.

In this welcome update, Anna Charles builds on Nick Timmins and Chris Ham’s initial review of the experiences of Canterbury and reflects on the implications for new models of care and for sustainability and transformation partnerships. It is a must read for anyone developing models of community integration.