Wandsworth is intensifying its focus on tackling health inequalities through a range of community-based initiatives, according to a recent meeting of the Wandsworth Health and Wellbeing Board.

The board convened on Thursday 26 June 2025, to discuss strategies aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of all residents, with a particular emphasis on addressing disparities in access, experience, and outcomes. Key areas of focus included safeguarding children, public health initiatives, and integrating health and social care services.

One significant area of discussion was the Wandsworth Health Inequalities Fund 2023-25. The fund supports schemes designed to reduce inequalities in access, experience, and outcomes for residents. A report highlighted the importance of community-based initiatives and the role of voluntary and community sector organisations in building trust and delivering preventative measures.

Attendees at the Wandsworth Safeguarding Children and Adults Partnerships Anti-Racist Conference 2023.
Attendees at the Wandsworth Safeguarding Children and Adults Partnerships Anti-Racist Conference 2023.

Another key topic was the Annual Director of Public Health Report, which focused on making smoking obsolete in Wandsworth. The report noted that while the number of people who smoke cigarettes is declining, around 20,000 people in Wandsworth continue to smoke each day. It recommended ensuring that stop smoking services remain available and accessible to everyone, as well as increasing support for priority populations.

The board also received an update on the delivery of the Joint Local Health and Wellbeing Strategy (JLHWS), focusing on the Live Well theme. The JLHWS aims to improve the health and wellbeing of Wandsworth residents, tackle inequalities, empower communities, and focus on prevention. Priorities include diabetes, cardiovascular disease, physical activity and healthy eating, smoking, alcohol, and mental health and suicide prevention.

Councillor Graeme Henderson (Cabinet Member for Health) chaired the meeting, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts to address these critical issues. The board also discussed the Wandsworth Health and Care Plan for 2025-27, which sets out priorities for integrating services, reducing health inequalities, promoting prevention, and supporting independent living.