The Public Health and Community Safety Cabinet Panel met on Friday 3 July 2026 to discuss a range of important issues affecting Hertfordshire residents. Key decisions included the noting and commenting on the annual report for the Hertfordshire Armed Forces Covenant Board, and the recommendation to Cabinet that policies relating to the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA) be approved. The panel also considered a motion to strengthen women's safety across the county and a report on Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS).

Strengthening Women's Safety Across Hertfordshire

The panel discussed a motion proposing the development of a county-wide Women's Safety Charter, building on the success of the North Hertfordshire Women's Safety Charter. Councillor Alistair Willoughby, seconded by Councillor Beth Kelly, proposed the motion, highlighting that the existing charter in North Hertfordshire had provided a valuable framework for businesses and organisations to commit to principles of recognising, responding, reporting, and re-educating on issues of women's safety. The aim of a county-wide charter would be to establish common standards and expectations across Hertfordshire, ensuring access to the same training materials, resources, and understanding of good practice for businesses in Watford, colleges in Stevenage, community venues in Hemel Hempstead, and leisure facilities in Hitchin. This approach would also aim to reduce duplication and make better use of public resources by sharing best practices.

Councillor Helen Gledhill, Head of Service for Strategic Partnerships in Public Health, responded positively, noting that the motion aligned with the council's existing Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Strategy. She explained that the strategy's governance is structured around themes of acting before harm, identifying and working with those who cause harm, increasing safety for victims, and providing support after harm. The proposed charter would complement this by providing practical implementation through local domestic abuse forums and new subgroups focused on victim safety. Councillor Richard Roberts expressed support but cautioned against stretching resources too thinly and losing coherence in the support provided. Councillor Paul Seeby requested details on what the charter specifically entails and how domestic abuse affects children, mentioning the work of Future Living charity. Councillor Seeby also highlighted the importance of extending prevention work throughout the county. Councillor Sean Prendergast emphasised that the issue extended beyond domestic abuse to include broader safety concerns for women and girls when out in the community, such as drink spiking and coercion.

The panel noted the motion and the response, and the discussion was minuted.

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)

Councillor Matt Fisher, Deputy Leader of the Green Group, presented a motion concerning Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS), also known as forever chemicals. He explained that these man-made chemicals are persistent in the environment and have been linked to a range of health concerns. Councillor Fisher emphasised that the motion was not intended to be alarmist but rather to explore what Hertfordshire County Council could responsibly do within its powers to protect public health and the environment from this growing issue. He highlighted the council's commitment to a precautionary approach, similar to past actions on smoking, asbestos, and leaded petrol. The report recommended monitoring emerging science, reducing PFAS use in council operations, advocating for stronger national measures, updating the Sustainable Hertfordshire Delivery Plan, and reviewing firefighter exposure. Councillor Fisher also welcomed the council writing to MPs and other authorities to encourage a coordinated national response.

Councillor Adrian England spoke in support, noting that while some significant actions had already been taken within the fire service, much remained unknown about PFAS. He highlighted that some alternatives to F-gases are themselves PFAS, making it a complex area. He shared an example from West Herts Hospital Trust, which eliminated the use of a PFAS-containing anaesthetic gas, desflurane. Councillor Julie Greaves, Head of Sustainability, confirmed that local authorities have a limited role due to a lack of statutory duty, dedicated funding, and regulatory powers. However, she stressed that the issue aligns with the council's sustainability principles, particularly responsible resource use and the need for officer and member training. Councillor Sarah Annable, Director of Public Health, supported the motion, acknowledging the evolving scientific evidence on health impacts, which include potential links to cancers, fertility issues, developmental delays, hypertension, and thyroid disorders. She stressed the need for more rigorous evidence and supported the council's focus on advocacy, education, and reducing PFAS use in its own operations. Darren, representing the fire service, explained that PFAS are present in firefighting foams and PPE, and that the service had ceased using PFAS-containing foams in 2022. He also mentioned the establishment of a contaminants working group to consider firefighter exposure.

Councillor John Hale welcomed the proposed actions, particularly the focus on public health and environmental protection. He stressed the need for strong advocacy to national government for funding and clearer guidance. Councillor Alison Wren inquired about the publication of a UK REACH report on chemicals. Councillor Ben Crystall raised concerns about the potential for PFAS to disrupt endocrine systems and inadvertently sterilise rivers, even as pollution is reduced. Councillor Matt Fisher concluded by reiterating the motion's aim to raise awareness both internally and externally and welcomed the report's comprehensive nature.

The panel considered the report in response to the motion.

Police and Crime Update

Councillor Matt Fisher, the council's representative on the Police and Crime Panel, presented an update on the Hertfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner's annual report. He highlighted significant improvements in crime recording accuracy, crime-solving rates, emergency response times, and neighbourhood policing. The report indicated progress in safeguarding vulnerable residents, with Hertfordshire rising nationally in its use of Clare's Law. The use of Palantir data analytics was discussed, with assurances given about governance and public scrutiny. Operation Hotspot had yielded positive results, including a reduction in anti-social behaviour. Successful partnership initiatives in retail crime reduction, rural crime prevention, tool theft, and road safety were also noted. The independent stop and search scrutiny panel and custody visiting scheme provided reassurance that powers were generally used appropriately.

Councillor John Hale raised concerns about the police's perceived lack of priority for road safety, despite it being a high concern for residents. He questioned the emphasis on community-led initiatives like Community Speedwatch over direct police enforcement. Councillor Seabey echoed these concerns about road safety and inquired about the expansion of the Decorum project and the allocation of funding for serious violence. Councillor David Herring asked for clarification on the timeframe for the removal of 100 knives and the ongoing status of knife amnesties. Councillor Ben Crystall and Councillor Richard Roberts both supported the call for improved road safety measures, suggesting streamlined processes for community schemes and the wider adoption of average speed cameras. They also discussed the use of Palantir, with the PCC seeking alternatives. Councillor Gemma Moore raised concerns about an increase in young people accessing derelict buildings and asked about the effectiveness of community protection powers. Councillor Sean Prendergast commended the report's overall positive direction but questioned the lack of detail on serious crime, such as county lines and drug issues.

The panel noted the update from Councillor Fisher.

Approval of Regulation of Investigatory Powers (RIPA) Annual Report

Russell Reeder, Director of Regulatory Services, and Simon Brinley, Trainee Standards Manager, presented the annual report on the use of investigatory powers under RIPA and the Investigatory Powers Act (IPA). They explained that these powers are used only when necessary and proportionate for preventing or detecting crime, with significant safeguards in place to protect individual privacy. The report detailed the use of directed surveillance, covert human intelligence sources (CHIS), and communications data. Directed surveillance was used in two trading standards operations involving underage sales, resulting in one prosecution. No CHIS were used. Communications data applications increased to 86, primarily by the shared anti-fraud service for social housing investigations and by trading standards in fraud cases. Examples were given of how communications data had been crucial in recovering social housing and identifying suspects in roofing fraud cases. The report confirmed no breaches of policies or compliance concerns.

Councillor Allison Wren asked if a similar policy existed for CCTV use. Officers clarified that this policy specifically covered covert surveillance and communications data, distinct from overt public space CCTV which has its own oversight. The panel noted the report and recommended to Cabinet that the policies be approved.

Update from the County Community Safety Unit (CCSU)

Gary Ray, Community Protection Manager, provided an update on the work of the CCSU, an integrated team of Hertfordshire County Council and Police staff. He highlighted their role in producing intelligence reports, including strategic assessments for community safety partnerships and joint strategic needs assessments (JSNAs) on topics such as Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) and serious violence. The team also audits drug-related deaths and issues drug alerts to partners and users. Mr Ray detailed the Drug Test on Arrest scheme, which resulted in 1,362 positive tests in 2025/26, and the rollout of naloxone, which has potentially saved 23 lives through police use.

Councillor John Hale inquired about the involvement of the Public Health team and the future of the CCSU in light of Local Government Reorganisation. Councillor Alex mentioned that work streams were considering the impact of LGR on services like the CCSU. Councillor Paul Seeby asked about the sources of drug data and the number of individuals who entered treatment following a positive drug test. Gary Ray explained that performance management data on treatment uptake was being developed and that data was sourced from various partners, always anonymised for strategic documents. Councillor Alex added that policing intelligence was separate from the CCSU's strategic work. Councillor Sarah Annable confirmed close working relationships between Public Health and the CCSU, with Public Health funding analysts within the team. She also provided details on the Serious Violence Grant funding.

The panel noted and commented on the content of the report.

Hertfordshire Armed Forces Covenant Board Annual Report 2025-2026

Kate Brierley, Policy Manager, presented the annual report of the Hertfordshire Armed Forces Covenant Board. She explained the Board's role in ensuring fair access to services, recognition of service, and integration into civilian life for the Armed Forces Community. The report highlighted achievements such as over 70 GP practices becoming veteran-friendly accredited and the continued operation of the Hertfordshire Heroes website. The Board has also strengthened its membership with greater representation from veteran organisations and is preparing for the expansion of the Armed Forces Covenant Duty in 2027.

Councillor Doug Bainbridge inquired about the duration and sustainability of funding for unpaid carers within the veteran community. Kate Brierley confirmed that while current funding was ending soon, Carers in Herts was seeking to sustain the programme. Councillor John Hale asked about the level of employment support available for veterans transitioning to civilian life, drawing a comparison with the support offered in the US. Kate Brierley explained the involvement of the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and the comprehensive training provided before service leavers exit the forces. Councillor Paul Seeby requested a more granular breakdown of veteran age demographics, particularly for recent leavers. Kate Brierley confirmed this data was available and would be shared. Councillor Richard Roberts asked about support for veterans within the criminal justice system, specifically mentioning HMP The Mount. Kate Brierley reported on the introduction of an in-custody veteran support officer and the development of groups to support veterans in custody and upon release.

The panel noted and commented on the report.

Public Health Grant 2025/2026 – 2026/2027

David Conrad, Deputy Director of Public Health, and Gill Burlingham, Strategic Lead for Public Health Corporate Services, presented the report on the Public Health Grant. They explained that the grant is ring-fenced and covers all staffing and commissioned service costs. The report detailed the grant allocation for 2025/26, which was £58.4 million, an increase of 5.9% from the previous year, along with additional grant funding for specific areas like substance misuse and stop smoking services. The largest expenditure was on public health nursing, sexual health services, and drug and alcohol treatment services. The report also outlined the significant increase in internal commissioning, rising to 18.6% of the grant, and a reduction in the Public Health team's staffing establishment following a strategic review. Reserves had been reduced to a target of 5-6% of the grant allocation, with a £1.2 million drawdown in 2025/26 for specific commitments.

For 2026/27, a three-year consolidated grant of over £65 million was confirmed, with a 5.6% increase over the period. Approximately 70% of this will be spent on commissioned services, 10% on salaries, and 15% on internal commissioning. Councillor John Howe welcomed the approach to using reserves for the Public Health Prevention Investment Programme. Councillor Richard Roberts questioned the allocation of the drug and alcohol grant, noting a significant difference between the total grant and the amount allocated for rehabilitation services. David Conrad clarified that the difference was due to funding other services from additional grants. Councillor Paul Seeby inquired about the three-year funding settlement and whether all areas received a fair share, and also asked for a central point of information on the various schemes. Sarah Annable confirmed that while the grant increase was modest, reserves were being used to manage pressures. She also confirmed that a review of weight management services was underway and an update would be provided. Councillor Alison Wren noted the increase in internal commissioning and expressed satisfaction that this was being addressed.

The panel noted and commented on the report.

Better Health Bus

Emily Clark, Strategic Lead for Healthy Places and Communities, and Elizabeth Gray, Health Improvement Coordinator, presented an update on the Better Health Bus. They highlighted the bus's relaunch with expanded services and objectives, including increasing public awareness, reaching underserved communities, strengthening partnerships, and improving monitoring and sustainability. Since January 2026, nine new services have been introduced, including drug and alcohol support from Change Grow Live (CGL) and sexual health services. The bus has attended 31 events and reached over 500 residents, with 67% of these in the most deprived areas. A new Community Support Worker has been recruited to manage the bus and enhance signposting. Resident satisfaction is high at 98.4%. Discussions are ongoing regarding environmental sustainability and a potential cost recovery model for external organisations using the bus.

Councillor Alison Wren praised the improvements and urged members to promote the bus within their communities. Councillor Paul Seeby inquired about the notice period required to book the bus and the types of issues residents present that the bus cannot address. Emily Clark explained that at least six weeks' notice was generally required, and that the bus could signpost to services like HertsHelp, Citizens Advice, and bereavement support. Councillor Richard Roberts expressed strong support for the bus's expanded role but cautioned against discussing sustainability in terms of funding viability. Emily Clark assured the panel that there was a long-term commitment to funding the bus from the Public Health Grant, with cost recovery models being explored for external users. Councillor Ben Crystall asked about the types of health checks and broader public health issues the bus could address, such as fire safety and neighbourhood watch. Emily Clark confirmed collaboration with the fire service and alignment with national health campaigns. Councillor Alex, in his concluding remarks, assured the panel that officers were discussing how to best spread resources and expand community touchpoints. The panel noted the report.

Motions Referred from Full Council

Strengthening Women's Safety Across Hertfordshire

Councillor Beth Kelly and Councillor Alistair Willoughby presented a motion to strengthen women's safety across Hertfordshire. Councillor Willoughby explained the success of the North Hertfordshire Women's Safety Charter, developed three years prior, which aimed to make women and girls feel safer in their communities. He highlighted its framework of Recognise, Respond, Report, Re-educate and practical measures like Ask for Angela. The motion proposed developing a county-wide charter to provide consistent standards, training, and resources, while allowing for local flexibility. Councillor Helen Gledhill, Head of Service for Strategic Partnerships in Public Health, responded positively, noting the alignment with the existing VAWG Strategy and the commitment of partners. Councillor Richard Roberts expressed support but cautioned against stretching resources too thinly. Councillor Paul Seeby requested more detail on the charter's specifics and its impact on children. Councillor Sean Prendergast emphasised that safety concerns extended beyond domestic abuse to broader issues faced by women and girls in public spaces.

The panel noted the motion and the response, and the discussion was minuted.

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)

Councillor Matt Fisher presented a motion regarding Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS), or forever chemicals. He highlighted their persistence in the environment and potential health risks. The motion proposed establishing leadership and awareness, protecting public health, safeguarding water and land, reviewing highways and infrastructure, strengthening procurement, protecting children and young people, and supporting adult health and care. Councillor Adrian England spoke about the complexity of the issue and the need for a precautionary approach. Councillor Julie Greaves, Head of Sustainability, confirmed that while local authorities had limited direct powers, the issue aligned with sustainability principles. Councillor Sarah Annable, Director of Public Health, supported the motion, noting the evolving scientific evidence and the council's role in advocacy, education, and reducing its own PFAS use. Darren, representing the fire service, explained that PFAS-containing firefighting foams had been ceased since 2022 and that a contaminants working group was in place.

Councillor John Hale welcomed the motion, stressing the need for national government funding and clear roles. Councillor Alison Wren inquired about the publication of a UK REACH report. Councillor Ben Crystall raised concerns about endocrine disruption and the potential for PFAS to impact river ecosystems. Councillor Matt Fisher concluded by emphasizing the motion's aim to raise awareness and welcomed the report's comprehensive nature.

The panel considered the report in response to the motion.

The meeting concluded with the Chair thanking everyone for their participation. The next meeting was scheduled for 14 September.