Health Inequalities
Councils are currently focusing on integrated neighbourhood health models and addressing specific public health concerns to reduce health inequalities.
Barnet Council's Planning Committee refused an adult gaming centre in October 2026 due to public health concerns related to gambling harm, despite officer recommendations. In September 2026, Ealing Council began implementing a Neighbourhood Health Model to provide integrated, preventative care, and Kensington and Chelsea's Fairer Action Plan reported persistent health inequalities.
Several councils are developing integrated health services, with Brent Council approving a £57 million Better Care Fund in July 2026 to integrate health and social care. Southwark launched integrated health teams in July 2026, and Newham Council is implementing a neighbourhood health approach to tackle inequalities, discussed in June 2026. Bexley Council is also deploying new Community Health & Wellbeing Coaches in North Bexley, funded by £177,153 from the Health Inequalities Fund in March 2026.
Health inequalities, defined as avoidable and unfair differences in health outcomes between population groups, are a focus for councils. Hackney's Health and Wellbeing Board is scheduled to meet on 22 October 2026, with this topic on its agenda.
Key facts
- Barnet Council's Planning Committee refused an adult gaming centre in October 2026 due to public health concerns. Source
- Kensington and Chelsea's Fairer Action Plan reported persistent health inequalities in September 2026. Source
- Ealing Council is implementing a Neighbourhood Health Model to tackle health inequalities, discussed in September 2026. Source
- Brent Council approved a £57 million Better Care Fund agreement for 2026-27 in July 2026. Source
- Bexley Council allocated £177,153 from the Health Inequalities Fund for new Community Health & Wellbeing Coaches in March 2026. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 15 October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.