The Health and Wellbeing Board and Surrey Heartlands Integrated Care Partnership met on Wednesday 17 June 2026 to discuss a range of public health initiatives and strategic planning. Key discussions included updates on the VCSE working group, the Health and Wellbeing Strategy, the Better Care Fund, a whole-system approach to healthy weight, and an update from the Integrated Care Board. The Board received updates and discussed various strategies and plans.

VCSE Working Group Update

The meeting received an update on the Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise (VCSE) working group, which is focused on strengthening the role of the VCSE sector in neighbourhood governance, prevention, early intervention, and community partnership arrangements. This work supports the implementation of the Neighbourhood Health Framework and Local Government Reform. The group is developing a VCSE Commissioning Framework and a modernised Surrey Compact, with ongoing engagement and co-production activities planned. Concerns were raised about the uncertainty surrounding contracts and funding for existing services, particularly for small to medium-sized organisations, and the potential impact on their ability to engage with future planning. The council acknowledged the complexity of contract mapping due to Local Government Reorganisation and assured that efforts were underway to provide clarity. The upcoming Section 24 restrictions on contracts over £100,000 from July 3rd were also highlighted, necessitating agreement from the two new shadow unitary authorities.

Health and Wellbeing Strategy Highlight Report and Index Update

An update was provided on the progress of the Health and Wellbeing Strategy (HWBS), highlighting achievements in cancer inequalities, mental health prevention, and community safety. The Tobacco and Vapes Bill received Royal Assent, introducing new legislation to prevent future generations from legally purchasing tobacco. A new underage sales and illicit tobacco and vapes officer has been appointed in Surrey. The Surrey Sexual Reproduction Health Strategy 2026-2031 was launched, outlining a collaborative vision for sexual and reproductive well-being. Challenges remain regarding ongoing funding, particularly in light of system-wide changes.

The HWBS Index update revealed improvements in children's physical activity, residents' perception of healthcare professionals considering mental well-being, and social connection opportunities. However, declines were noted in the prevalence of obesity among young children, the attainment gap between disadvantaged and non-disadvantaged pupils, and the number of young people receiving Jobseeker's Allowance or Universal Credit. The Board was informed that the highlight reports and index would be used to raise awareness of delivery against the strategy and to address significant challenges, particularly those related to inequalities of geography and identity.

Whole System Approach to Addressing Gambling Related Harm

A strategy for a whole-system approach to addressing gambling-related harm in Surrey was presented. The strategy outlines eight priorities, including understanding local needs, universal awareness campaigns, strengthened licensing and planning policies, prevention for children and young people, embedding routine screening in primary care, working with national partners to reduce harmful gambling advertising, building capacity across policing and serious organised crime, and collaborating with the University of Surrey for research and innovation. The Board was informed that engagement with the strategy and recommendations on further partners for engagement would be considered.

Refresh of Surrey Health and Wellbeing Strategy

The final draft of the refreshed Surrey Health and Wellbeing Strategy (2026-2030) was presented for approval. The refresh ensures the strategy remains fit for purpose amidst system transitions, incorporating changes in health and local government structures, and a growing focus on Neighbourhoods. It also integrates the Surrey Prevention Framework and updates priority populations and key neighbourhoods based on the latest data and strategic developments. The strategy maintains its focus on reducing health inequalities through prevention and ensuring no one is left behind.

Better Care Fund (BCF) Planning

The Board received an update on the Better Care Fund (BCF) plan for 2026/27, which has been developed in partnership by Surrey health and care partners. The plan focuses on evidencing current investment impact, aligning with national policy, and developing a strategic framework for Surrey. The future of the BCF from 2027/28 is uncertain due to Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) and changes to the Integrated Care Funding Framework (ICFF). The total BCF budget for 2026/27 is £137.7 million, with the majority allocated to core statutory services. Challenges include NHS structural changes, the complexity of the BCF, data consistency, and the potential impact of Fair Funding Reforms and changes to the Disabled Facilities Grant. The BCF team is working to ensure a safe and legal handover during LGR and is preparing for future reforms.

Whole System Approach to Healthy Weight

A comprehensive update was provided on Surrey's whole-system approach to addressing children and young people's healthy weight. This approach recognises that child weight is influenced by complex systemic factors, including food affordability, accessibility, the food environment, and activity levels, with a clear link to deprivation and food insecurity. The strategy focuses on early intervention, positive environments, and community strengths, aligning with the HWBS priorities. Interventions include investment in early years and schools, strengthening community skills, tackling inequalities, and building sustainable partnerships. Recommendations were made to include unhealthy weight/obesity in the End Poverty Pledge, maximise opportunities with new neighbourhood health teams, upskill those working with communities, and ensure the approach is evidence-based. Challenges include increased pressure on schools due to free school meals and holiday activity clubs, and specific needs of neurodivergent children. Opportunities lie in early years settings, neighbourhood health teams, and the Be Your Best programme.

Integrated Care Board (ICB) Update

An update was provided on the Surrey and Sussex ICB's transition to its new operating model and the final implementation stage of its new structure. The ICB has seen a significant reduction in its workforce and is focusing on supporting remaining staff and ensuring those leaving are well supported. The five-year strategic plan is nearing finalisation, with a detailed delivery plan being developed. Progress on neighbourhood health initiatives was highlighted, including a national pilot in the east and proposals for neighbourhood health hubs. Positive highlights included progress at Surrey and Sussex Hospital on elective care and recognition for the Surrey Surgical Centre. The ICB's digital primary care programme is also delivering efficiencies and improving patient data. Discussions also touched upon the importance of engaging with the one public estate initiative for estate planning and the potential for co-location of voluntary sector services.

The meeting concluded with a reminder of the date for the next meeting on 15 July 2026, which will focus on a deep dive into healthy weight, and the subsequent formal meeting on 9 September 2026, with efforts to engage the new shadow authorities.