The Health and Wellbeing Board met on Thursday 8 January 2026 to discuss winter preparedness, a whole-systems approach to healthy weight, and support for residents with severe and multiple disadvantages. Key decisions included noting the winter preparedness framework, endorsing the whole-systems approach to healthy weight, and agreeing to further investigate and report on severe and multiple disadvantage.

Winter Preparedness

The Board received a report outlining Harrow's partnership framework for monitoring and responding to winter pressures. Laurence Gibson, Director of Public Health, explained that the framework is structured around three key elements: confirming the situation through data and intelligence, managing and controlling pressures through existing initiatives, and aligning communications across partners. While the framework was welcomed, members raised concerns about the granularity of data for specific communities and the need for stronger coordination and clearer reporting on Harrow-specific outcomes compared to previous years. It was noted that while no local shortages of flu vaccines were reported, further targeted engagement was needed to address vaccination fatigue. The Board noted the report and agreed that further work should be undertaken to strengthen the winter pressures framework, particularly in relation to coordination, community engagement, and future reporting.

Whole Systems Approach to Weight Management

The Board discussed a proposed whole-systems approach to promoting healthy weight across the borough. Mathilde Kerr, Health Improvement Officer, presented the report, highlighting that healthy weight outcomes are influenced by multiple interconnected factors, requiring collaborative action. Data presented showed significant increases in overweight and obesity among children and adults in Harrow, alongside a high prevalence of type 2 diabetes and an ageing population, underscoring the need for preventative, system-wide action. While existing tiered weight management services were outlined, it was emphasised that wider determinants of health, such as housing, employment, and the built environment, also play a crucial role. Next steps include partner engagement and the establishment of a task and finish group to develop a strategy and action plan. Members welcomed the approach, particularly initiatives to increase physical activity in schools and the focus on addressing factors beyond the school environment. Concerns were raised about the growing prevalence of metabolic conditions and the need for clear communication about available schemes. The Board noted the report and presentation, agreeing that further work should be undertaken to strengthen the framework, particularly regarding coordination, community engagement, and future reporting.

Harrow Residents with Severe and Multiple Disadvantages

The Board received a report on the work underway to quantify and improve support for residents experiencing severe and multiple disadvantage (SMD). Sandy Miller, Principal Public Health Analyst, explained that SMD refers to individuals facing two or more intersecting health and social issues, such as homelessness, substance misuse, and mental ill health. Initial estimates suggest that at least 1,000 Harrow residents experience SMD, with significant associated public service costs. The report highlighted the importance of learning from existing models, such as the Making Every Adult Matter (MEAM) approach, and the need for partnership working, including with the voluntary and community sector. Members welcomed the report and the initiative, noting its relevance to public safety and the potential for preventative approaches. Concerns were raised about the scale and sustainability of potential costs, with suggestions for pilot or phased approaches. The Board agreed that the proposed approach to understanding and addressing SMD should be supported and progressed through the Joint Strategic Needs Assessment Working Group, with regular progress updates to be reported back to the Board.

Harrow Safeguarding Children's Board Report

The Interim Strategic Partnership Manager provided a verbal update on the work of the Harrow Safeguarding Children Partnership (HSCP). The Board was informed of the three key strategic priorities for 2024–25: Early Help and the Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH); Domestic Abuse and Child Safeguarding; and Contextual Safeguarding. Key achievements included the rollout of the Team Around the Family framework and the launch of the Family Hubs Network. The Board was also updated on progress in developing trauma-informed practice and a Domestic Abuse and Child Safeguarding Strategy. Members noted the verbal update and expressed support for the ongoing work of the HSCP.