Hillingdon Council is bolstering its commitment to public health by establishing a new Health Protection Committee. The decision, unanimously approved during the Health and Wellbeing Board meeting on Tuesday, December 2nd, 2025, aims to safeguard residents from preventable health threats.

The committee will play a crucial role in ensuring effective measures are in place to protect the health of the people of Hillingdon. This includes addressing key areas such as:

  • Vaccination and immunisation
  • Cancer and non-cancer screening programmes
  • Communicable diseases
  • Environmental hazards
  • Disease surveillance
  • Data sharing and notification processes
  • Workforce capacity and capability

Map of Hillingdon showing GP locations by PCN and Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD) decile.
Map of Hillingdon showing GP locations by PCN and Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD) decile.Source: Health and Wellbeing Board papers, 2 December 2025

The Interim Director of Public Health will chair the committee, which will report to the Health and Wellbeing Board annually. However, the Hillingdon Health Protection Committee report specifies that any 'significant risks' will be immediately brought to the board's attention.

The proposed Terms of Reference for the committee further detail its purpose and specific responsibilities, including data sharing and notification processes to improve disease surveillance, as outlined in the Hillingdon Health Protection Committee report.

The establishment of the Hillingdon Health Protection Committee underscores the council's commitment to prioritising the health and well-being of its residents. The committee's work will be crucial in ensuring that the borough is well-prepared to address current and emerging health threats.