Hammersmith and Fulham has established a new committee to scrutinise health and care services across the borough. The Families, Health and Care Policy and Accountability Committee (PAC) held its inaugural meeting on Monday, June 29, 2026, marking a significant step in enhancing local oversight of these critical areas.
The committee's terms of reference were discussed, with a noted need to rebalance the allocation of co-opted member slots to ensure better representation for adult and health matters alongside existing provisions for children's and education issues. An action was agreed to review these terms before the next meeting to ensure a more balanced representation.
During the meeting, Councillor Aliya Afzal-Khan, pictured here, raised a pertinent question about how residents' voices would be incorporated into the scrutiny process. 
Councillor Sarah Sanderson, Operational Director for Children and Young People's Services, explained that resident input is gathered through co-opted community representatives, extensive co-production initiatives, and direct feedback from councillors in their wards. Residents are also welcome to attend meetings and pose questions.
Specific examples of co-production initiatives mentioned include the Schools Forum, the Youth Crime Prevention Partnership, engagement with the NHS, engagement with older people, and other co-production work. Councillor Sanderson noted that if there are any other groups the committee could touch on, they should be made aware, indicating a willingness to consider broader representation and ensure feedback accurately reflects the diverse needs of all residents, particularly vulnerable groups.
An introduction to the newly formed People Services directorate, established in 2024, provided an overview of its integrated approach. This directorate encompasses adult social care, children's social care, public health, education, schools, and commissioning and partnerships, aiming for a holistic, life-course perspective.
The committee's work programme for 2026/27 will be discussed at a future meeting. Future meetings are scheduled for November 2, 2026, January 26, 2027, and April 19, 2027.
Read the full agenda and public reports pack for the meeting here: Agenda frontsheet 29th Jun 2026 and Public reports pack 29th Jun 2026.
