NHS
Councils are currently discussing NHS service reorganisation and addressing delays in health infrastructure projects.
Brent Council's Health and Wellbeing Board approved a new four-neighbourhood model for NHS services in September 2026, consolidating five areas into four to streamline care. Meanwhile, the opening of a permanent health hub for Barking Riverside has been delayed due to protracted negotiations and rising costs, as heard by the Health Scrutiny Committee in September 2026. Newham Council is also implementing a neighbourhood health approach to tackle inequalities, discussed in June 2026.
Havering Council agreed to review its mental wellbeing support services in September 2026 to identify gaps and opportunities for improved coordination. In July 2026, Southwark Council pledged to protect The Nest, a mental health service for children and young people, preventing its scheduled closure. Kensington and Chelsea Council also heard in July 2026 that Pembridge Hospice's inpatient unit closed due to workforce challenges, though outpatient services continue.
Several councils are focusing on their Health and Wellbeing Boards to enhance public health duties and collaboration with partners. Kingston Council re-established its dedicated Health and Wellbeing Board in June 2026, responding to changes within the National Health Service. Redbridge's Health and Wellbeing Board was set to cover neighbourhood health planning in September 2026.
Key facts
- Brent Council's Health and Wellbeing Board approved a new four-neighbourhood model for NHS services on September 17, 2026. Source 1 Source 2
- The opening of a permanent health hub for Barking Riverside has been delayed due to negotiations and rising costs, as heard in September 2026. Source
- Havering Council agreed to review its mental wellbeing support services on September 2, 2026. Source
- Southwark Council pledged to protect The Nest, a mental health service for children and young people, in July 2026. Source
- Kensington and Chelsea Council heard in July 2026 that Pembridge Hospice's inpatient unit closed due to workforce challenges. 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 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.