The Health and Adult Social Services Scrutiny Panel of Ealing Council met on Thursday 17 September 2026 to discuss the NHS Wheelchair Service and the council's partnership approach to neighbourhood health. The panel also reviewed its work programme.

NHS Wheelchair Service

The panel was scheduled to receive an update on the NHS wheelchair services provided to residents of Ealing. The report detailed the arrangements for assessment, provision, maintenance, and review of these services, which are commissioned by NHS West & North London Integrated Care Board (ICB) and delivered by AJM Healthcare. The report indicated that the ICB had identified concerns regarding waiting times and communication with service users, leading to an improvement programme. Progress had been made in reducing backlogs, with a 27% reduction in the overall caseload backlog reported since April 2026. Repairs and maintenance performance had also shown sustained improvement, with the provider consistently meeting targets. Enhanced governance and contractual oversight arrangements were in place, with fortnightly meetings between the ICB and AJM Healthcare to track progress.

Partnership Approach and Priorities/Neighbourhood Health

The panel was also scheduled to discuss Ealing's approach to neighbourhood health, focusing on the implementation of Integrated Neighbourhood Teams (INTs). This approach aims to bring together health, care, public health, housing, and community partners to deliver services closer to residents and reduce health inequalities. The report highlighted that eight INTs have been established across the borough, aligning with the Council Plan, Health and Wellbeing Strategy, and Connected Communities programme. Key priorities for these teams include supporting children and young people, individuals experiencing frailty, those with complex needs, and improving mental health and wellbeing. The report noted that while national reforms present opportunities for increased investment in prevention, further clarity is needed regarding future funding arrangements. The panel was asked to consider the opportunities, challenges, risks, and financial implications associated with these neighbourhood health reforms, ensuring that governance and delivery arrangements remain focused on improving resident outcomes and reducing health inequalities.

Panel Work Programme

The panel was scheduled to consider its work programme for the upcoming year. This programme outlines the issues the panel intends to examine as part of its oversight role in monitoring NHS and council performance and policy implementation. The work programme is a rolling plan that can be amended to address new issues as they arise.