The Ealing Council Strategy and Change Scrutiny Panel met on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, to discuss updates on health research and preventative strategies. The agenda included a review of the Health Determinants Research Collaboration and an exploration of place-based prevention methods. Additionally, the panel was scheduled to review its work program and approve the minutes from the previous meeting.

Health Determinants Research Collaboration Update

The panel was scheduled to receive an update on the Health Determinants Research Collaboration (HDRC). The HDRC is a research partnership between Ealing Council and the University of West London, aiming to address health inequalities within the borough.

The Strategy and Change Scrutiny December 2025 HDRC document outlines the background, governance, and progress of the HDRC. It notes that the HDRC is overseen by a Programme Board, which includes representatives from the council, the university, and the community. The Programme Board is responsible for setting the strategic direction of the HDRC and ensuring that its work aligns with the council's priorities.

The update was expected to cover the HDRC's ongoing projects, including research on:

• childhood obesity
• mental health
• access to healthcare

The panel was also scheduled to discuss the HDRC's plans for future research and its engagement with local communities.

Foundations of Place Based Prevention

The panel was scheduled to discuss a report on the foundations of place-based prevention. Place-based prevention focuses on addressing the social, economic, and environmental factors that influence health outcomes in specific geographic areas. This approach recognises that health is not solely determined by individual behaviours but is also shaped by the conditions in which people live, work, and play.

The Place and prevention report SC scrutiny 201225 v3.0 Final report explores how Ealing Council can use place-based approaches to improve the health and well-being of its residents. It highlights the importance of:

• Community engagement: Involving local residents in the design and delivery of prevention programs.
• Partnership working: Collaborating with other organisations, such as community groups, businesses, and healthcare providers.
• Data-driven decision-making: Using data to identify areas with the greatest need and to track the impact of interventions.

The report also provides examples of successful place-based prevention initiatives from other areas.

Panel Work Program

The Strategy and Change Scrutiny Panel was scheduled to review its work program. The Strategy Change Work Programme Covering Report_02 Dec 2025 outlines the panel's planned activities for the year, including:

• Scrutinising the council's strategies and policies
• Monitoring the performance of council services
• Conducting inquiries into specific issues of concern

The Appendix 1Strategy Change Work Programme2025-2026_Nov update provides a detailed breakdown of the panel's work program, including the topics it will be examining and the timelines for each activity. Councillor Jon Ball was expected to lead the discussion.