The Health Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to meet on Thursday 10 September 2026 to discuss a range of important health-related topics. Key areas for discussion include planning for the upcoming winter period, an update on vaccination and immunisation programmes across the city, and a review of the findings from the Care Quality Commission's assessment of Adult Social Care services. The committee will also consider the Adult Social Care – Unpaid Carers Strategy 2026-2029.

Planning for Winter 2026/27

The committee is scheduled to receive a report providing a forward view of the planning underway for the Winter 2026/27 period. This report, from the Interim Place Partnership Director and the Executive Director Adult Social Services, will outline the preparations being made by health and care system partners in Manchester and Greater Manchester to address the challenges anticipated during the winter months.

Vaccination and Immunisation Update

A significant portion of the meeting is dedicated to a Vaccination and Immunisation Update. This report, from the Director of Public Health, will detail the national and local context for vaccination and immunisation programmes. It is expected to summarise delivery and performance information across the city for various programmes, outline the approach to communications, and identify key opportunities and challenges associated with the vaccination system. The report highlights that nationally and locally, vaccination coverage for several programmes remains below the World Health Organization's target of 95% for herd immunity, with outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases re-emerging in some areas. The report also details specific vaccination programmes, including those for pregnant women, children, young adults, older adults, and at-risk populations, as well as updates on school-aged immunisations and vaccinations delivered through sexual health services.

Adult Social Care CQC Assessment Findings and Directorate Response

The committee is set to review the findings of Manchester City Council's first Care Quality Commission (CQC) assessment of Adult Social Care services. The report indicates that Manchester achieved an overall rating of Good with a score of 73%, making it the highest-rated Core City authority in England. The assessment recognised strengths in leadership, partnership working, person-centred practice, prevention, reablement, and a commitment to reducing inequalities. However, areas for further improvement were also identified, and the report outlines how the Directorate is refreshing its transformation programme, Achieving Better Outcomes Together (ABOT) , to address these opportunities and support the next phase of service transformation.

Adult Social Care - Unpaid Carers Strategy 2026 – 2029

A report presenting the Unpaid Carer's Strategy 2026-2029 is scheduled for discussion. Developed in collaboration with Manchester Local Care Organisation (MLCO) Commissioning, Gaddum, and other partners, the strategy aims to provide a clear framework for improving outcomes for unpaid carers. It details how partners and the council will work together, supported by a detailed action plan. The strategy has been co-created through extensive engagement, including direct feedback from over 250 unpaid carers. The report focuses on adult carers aged 18 and over, with ongoing joint working with Children's Services to ensure alignment for young carers transitioning into adulthood.

Overview Report

The committee will also receive an Overview Report from the Governance and Scrutiny Support Unit. This report typically includes a monitor of previous recommendations, details of relevant key decisions, items for information, and the committee's work programme. This allows members to stay informed about ongoing council business and to review and agree any necessary changes to their future work programme.

The meeting will also consider Planning for Winter 2026/27 and the Adult Social Care CQC Assessment Findings and Directorate Response . Additionally, the committee will review the Unpaid Carers Strategy 2026 – 2029 and an Overview Report which includes a recommendations monitor, key decisions, and items for information.