The Lincolnshire Integrated Care Partnership (ICP) meeting was scheduled to discuss the future of Integrated Care Partnerships in light of proposed legislative changes. The partnership was also due to review its forward plan.

Future of Integrated Care Partnerships

A significant item on the agenda was a report from Alison Christie, Head of Prevention and System Oversight, concerning the proposals within the Health Bill 2026 regarding the future of Integrated Care Partnerships (ICPs). The report indicated that these changes would likely lead to the abolition of ICPs and Integrated Care Strategies. The rationale behind these proposed reforms, as outlined in the report, is to simplify the strategic planning landscape, reduce duplication, and support more effective joint working between the NHS, local government, and other partners.

The report suggested that Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) would focus on their role as strategic commissioners, working closely with local government. It also highlighted that Health and Wellbeing Boards (HWBs) would assume a strengthened system leadership and oversight role, becoming the primary forum for developing and overseeing Neighbourhood Health Plans (NHPs). These NHPs are intended to reflect local needs and system priorities.

The report outlined proposed actions for the Integrated Care Partnership:

• To note the proposed legislative changes contained within the Health Bill relating to the abolition of ICPs and Integrated Care Strategies.
• To authorise the Chair, subject to the Health Bill becoming an Act, to take the necessary actions to stand down the Integrated Care Partnership.

This proposed change signifies a shift in how health and care services are strategically planned and delivered across Lincolnshire, moving towards a more streamlined approach centred on HWBs and NHPs. The report acknowledged that, subject to the Health Bill receiving Royal Assent, this meeting was expected to be the final one for the Lincolnshire ICP.

Forward Plan

The partnership was invited to note the contents of its Forward Plan for 2026. This plan outlined the agenda items scheduled for future meetings, including the discussion on the future of Integrated Care Partnerships. The forward plan indicated that the purpose of this agenda item was for the partnership to note the proposed legislative changes and authorise the Chair to take action to stand down the ICP if the Health Bill became law.