The Public Health & Community Safety Cabinet Panel of Hertfordshire Council is scheduled to convene on Monday, 14 September 2026. The meeting's agenda includes discussions on the Hertfordshire Fire & Rescue Service's performance and future plans, updates on public health prevention programmes, and responses to council motions concerning prostate cancer screening and the growing demand for health services.

Update from Hertfordshire's Chief Constable

The panel is scheduled to receive a verbal update from the Chief Constable for Hertfordshire, Andy Prophet. This session will allow members to ask questions regarding policing matters within the county.

Motion: Council of Sanctuary Status

A motion is scheduled for consideration regarding Hertfordshire County Council working towards recognition as a Council of Sanctuary. The report outlines the requirements of the Council of Sanctuary accreditation process, existing support for refugees and asylum seekers in Hertfordshire, and potential benefits, risks, and resource implications. It also suggests exploring the development of a county-wide action plan to strengthen inclusion and community cohesion for those seeking sanctuary.

Hertfordshire Fire & Rescue Service Annual Performance Report 2025-26

The panel is set to review the Hertfordshire Fire & Rescue Service (HFRS) Annual Performance Report for 2025-26. This report details the service's performance against various indicators, including incident data, response times, and community support activities. It highlights an increase in incidents compared to previous years, partly attributed to dry weather conditions, and notes improvements in attendance times for the first fire engine to property fires. The report also covers staff health and wellbeing, with a focus on sickness absence trends, and details efficiency and productivity measures implemented by HFRS.

Hertfordshire Fire & Rescue Service CRMP Delivery Plan Update 26/27

An update on the Hertfordshire Fire & Rescue Service's (HFRS) Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP) Delivery Plan for 2026/27 is scheduled for discussion. This report details progress on new and proactive measures focused on innovation and continuous improvement, aligned with the risks and commitments outlined in the CRMP. It will provide an overview of the status of various projects under the CRMP, including updates on the HMICFRS action plan and station refurbishments.

HMICFRS Inspection Report and Action Plan

The panel will receive an update on the progress made in addressing the recommendations from the His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Service's (HMICFRS) inspection of Hertfordshire Fire & Rescue Service (HFRS), published in February 2025. This includes information on the accelerated cause of concern issued during the inspection and the actions being taken to address it. The report indicates significant progress has been made, with some recommendations already closed by HMICFRS.

Public Health Prevention Investment Programme Update: Nourish and Healthy Ageing Programmes

An update on the Public Health Prevention Investment Programme (PHIP) will be presented, with a specific focus on the Nourish Hertfordshire and Healthy Ageing programmes. Nourish Hertfordshire aims to improve the school food environment for children and young people, working with 40 schools across the county. The Age Friendly: Live Better programme seeks to improve the health, wellbeing, and inclusion of older residents by addressing issues such as loneliness, access to services, and promoting active ageing.

Motion: Prostate Cancer Screening

A motion concerning prostate cancer screening is scheduled for consideration. The motion highlights that prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men in England and that early diagnosis significantly improves survival rates. It proposes the development of a Hertfordshire Prostate Cancer Early Detection and Awareness Strategy, the establishment of an annual county-wide awareness campaign, and targeted programmes for men at higher risk. The motion also calls for annual reporting on prostate cancer incidence, mortality, and inequalities within Hertfordshire.

Motion: Growing Demand for Health Services in Hertfordshire

The panel will consider a motion addressing the growing demand for health services in Hertfordshire. The motion notes concerns regarding variable access to GP, dental, and mental health services, the impact of an increasing and aging population, and doubts over the future of specialist emergency cancer services. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of Integrated Care Boards and the proposed abandonment of Healthwatch, advocating for meaningful engagement with local communities and closer working between councils and the NHS.

Cabinet Panel Work Programme 2026/27

The panel will review and consider items for inclusion in its work programme for 2026/27. This includes a review of the proposed work programme attached as Appendix A, with the opportunity for members to suggest additions, deletions, or amendments.