The Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee met on Wednesday, 14 January 2026, to discuss primary care services, the council's medium-term financial strategy for public health, and pandemic preparedness. Key discussions included concerns about GP access in Melton Mowbray, the financial implications of the public health grant, and lessons learned from recent pandemic preparedness exercises.

Primary Care

The committee received a comprehensive report from the Integrated Care Board (ICB) on primary care services across Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland (LLR). The report detailed efforts to improve access and outcomes, including increased appointment numbers, the implementation of digital services, and the expansion of community pharmacy roles through the Pharmacy First scheme. A significant portion of the discussion focused on the challenges faced in Melton Mowbray, particularly concerning Latham House Medical Practice. Councillors expressed frustration over long waiting times and the deferral of funding for a second GP practice in Melton until February 2027. The ICB explained that while they are committed to working with Melton Borough Council, the lack of capital funding for new premises and insufficient evidence of a prioritised need for additional services in Melton compared to other areas of LLR had led to the pause. The committee also heard about efforts to reduce Did Not Attend (DNA) rates for GP appointments, which have risen significantly, and the role of community pharmacies in alleviating pressure on GP services.

Medium Term Financial Strategy for Public Health

The committee reviewed the Medium Term Financial Strategy (MTFS) for Public Health, which is funded by a specific grant from the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC). For the first time in approximately ten years, a multi-year settlement has been provided, offering greater certainty. However, the grant includes ring-fenced allocations for drugs and alcohol treatment, recovery, and prevention, as well as smoking cessation, which are increasing year-on-year. This restricts the growth available for other public health services. The report highlighted that the Public Health department does not call on the council's General Fund, as it is entirely grant-funded. Discussions also touched upon the potential impact of the ongoing Efficiency Review, led by Newton Impact, on future financial planning and service delivery.

Pandemic Planning

The committee received an update on pandemic preparedness across LLR, highlighting the ongoing work to maintain robust plans and multi-agency resilience. Three major exercises – Exercise Tangra, Exercise Solaris, and Exercise Pegasus – were conducted to test and improve response capabilities. Key learning points from these exercises included the need for equitable access to resources like Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), the importance of retaining knowledge as staff move on, and the critical role of clear and consistent communication. Challenges identified include funding mechanisms, sustaining readiness during inter-pandemic periods, workforce fatigue, building public trust, and addressing health inequalities. Councillors raised concerns about the level of engagement with elected members during past pandemic responses and the clarity of command and control structures. The ICB acknowledged these points and committed to reviewing the inclusion of elected members in future exercises and ensuring greater transparency regarding pandemic plans. The committee also heard from a former care home provider in New Zealand who shared insights on effective pandemic management strategies, emphasizing the importance of engaging directly with providers and learning from international best practices.