Kensington and Chelsea's Adult Social Care & Health Select Committee convened on Wednesday, 18 June 2025, to address key priorities, including dentistry, community pharmacies, and the committee's future work programme.
The committee reviewed measures to combat poor oral health in children and adults. A report noted that in Kensington and Chelsea, one in four 5-year-old children had tooth decay in 2018-19, slightly above the England average. Public health officials emphasized their statutory duty to improve oral health, particularly among diverse groups, SEND children, and care home residents. Current initiatives include the Central London Community Healthcare (CLCH) NHS Trust Oral Health Promotion (OHP) Team and the Keep Smiling Programme
in targeted schools.
The committee also received an update on community pharmacies from Hitesh Patel, CEO of COMMUNITY PHARMACY KCW. A new funding settlement promises a 7.5% increase in 2024/25 and a further 22.7% in 2025/26. However, K&C pharmacies face pressure and underperform in NHS Pharmaceutical Services. Patel highlighted a Business Rates Inequity,
noting that GP surgeries are reimbursed for business rates while pharmacies are not. He suggested that RBKC could protect the community pharmacy network by providing business rates relief.
The committee discussed the Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment (PNA) 2025-2028, which concludes that Kensington and Chelsea is well-served by pharmacies. The draft PNA states that there is good access to necessary services with no gaps in current or future provision. The closure of the Tesco pharmacy on West Cromwell Road was considered in the analysis.
Finally, the committee discussed its work programme for 2025/2026, including Dentistry and oral health, Community pharmacies, Budget Scrutiny, and the Annual Report of the Safeguarding Adults' Executive Board. The Suicide Prevention Working Group will also continue its work.
View the full meeting details for more information.