The Public Health and Community Safety Cabinet Panel met on Monday 14 September 2026, discussing a wide range of issues including updates from Hertfordshire's Chief Constable, the Fire and Rescue Service's annual performance, and progress on public health programmes. Key decisions included the adoption of a motion to explore Council of Sanctuary status for Hertfordshire and a motion to develop a Prostate Cancer Early Detection and Awareness Strategy.

Update from Hertfordshire's Chief Constable

Deputy Chief Constable Andy Mariner provided an update on policing in Hertfordshire. He reported that while overall crime figures are increasing, this is in line with seasonal trends and improved recording practices. Performance in answering 999 and 101 calls has improved, as has response call performance. The force is now solving more crime than in a considerable period, with a 12-month solve rate of 16.3%, and has seen significant improvements in national comparisons for solving all crime types, burglary, criminal damage, and rape. Operation Tornado had recently led to arrests for drug-related offences and the seizure of a machete. The Deputy Chief Constable also highlighted ongoing work in vulnerability and safeguarding, and mentioned a £2.3 million government grant for increased patrols for the Jewish community.

Councillor Mark Biddle raised concerns about youth-related violence and the staffing levels of response teams. Deputy Chief Constable Mariner stated there were no specific county-wide hotspots for youth violence but that the force could respond quickly to reports. Regarding staffing, he explained that while numbers are high, perception can differ, and the force works to maintain minimum staffing levels.

Police and Crime Commissioner Jonathan Ash Edwards added that while more funding would always be helpful, Hertfordshire has structural disadvantages in funding, with the fifth lowest police precept in the country. He is advocating for greater flexibility from the Home Office.

Councillor Paul Seeby asked about the use of drones, and Deputy Chief Constable Mariner confirmed that the force is in the process of purchasing its own drones, which will be decentralised.

Councillor Beth Kelly welcomed the improvements but raised concerns about the balance between concentrating resources on crime fighting and community engagement, and the fire service's role in road traffic incidents. Deputy Chief Constable Mariner reassured that neighbourhood policing remains a focus and that road safety is addressed through education and enforcement, with collaboration with Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Police.

Councillor Maurice Bright raised concerns about heavy goods vehicles bypassing villages and the impact of the hot summer on crime. He also thanked the police for their support of the Jewish community. Deputy Chief Constable Mariner explained that enforcement on HGVs in country lanes is challenging due to access rights, and that camera enforcement might be more effective. He noted that the hot summer had not led to an increase in crime, attributing this to the arrest of prolific offenders.

Councillor Mark Biddle asked about speeding boy racers, and Deputy Chief Constable Mariner agreed to investigate this further.

Police and Crime Commissioner Jonathan Ash Edwards concluded by reiterating the strong core performance of the constabulary, particularly in solving crime and reducing robbery offences. He also mentioned ongoing work regarding unauthorised developments on green belt land and the upcoming changes in the Sentencing Act.

Motion - Council of Sanctuary Status

The Panel considered a motion proposing that Hertfordshire County Council explore becoming a Council of Sanctuary. Councillor Alistair Willoughby, seconded by Councillor Beth Kelly, moved the motion, emphasizing that it was about dignity, fairness, and basic humanity, and would not encourage irregular migration or change immigration policy. They highlighted that asylum seekers are already in the county and that the status would involve practical, community-focused steps to support them.

Councillor Peter Colley spoke against the motion, arguing it lacked democratic legitimacy as constituents had not been consulted. He raised concerns about the strain on local infrastructure and the potential for this to compound existing shortages in GP and dental appointments.

Councillor Morris Bright also spoke against the motion, stating that Hertfordshire already delivers the things the charter calls for and that a new title would add bureaucracy. He suggested focusing energy on flagging existing resources.

Maggie Filippova-Rivers, from the City of Sanctuary UK movement, spoke in favour, clarifying that the scheme does not interfere with immigration policy but focuses on treating people with respect. She challenged the claim that Hertfordshire was being overwhelmed, stating that asylum seekers represented a very small percentage of the population.

Councillor Sean Prendergast spoke in support, stating that the motion was straightforward and about exploring implications and opportunities, not opening borders or committing significant taxpayer money.

Councillor Gemma Moore also supported the motion, agreeing it was about enhancing existing work and not changing national policy.

Councillor Adrian England asked for clarification on the number of refugees coming to the UK, and Maggie Filippova-Rivers responded that most refugees stay in neighbouring countries and that the UK does not receive the vast majority globally.

Councillor Maurice Bright raised concerns about the lack of detail on implications, opportunities, and resource requirements in the paperwork. The Chair confirmed that a working plan would be developed.

Councillor Beth Kelly supported the motion, emphasizing welcoming people and reinforcing existing work, and expressed sadness at divisive comments made.

The motion was ultimately supported and will go to Cabinet, with the understanding that the council cannot support all aspects of it.

Hertfordshire Fire & Rescue Service Annual Performance Report 2025-26

John Boulter presented the Hertfordshire Fire & Rescue Service (HFRS) Annual Performance Report for 2025-26. He highlighted an increase in incidents attended, in line with national trends, and improvements in response times, particularly for the first fire engine to property fires. The report also detailed increased activity in Home Fire Safety Visits and Fire Safety inspections, alongside strong performance in firefighter training and the apprentice scheme.

Councillor Mark Biddle asked about fire-related casualties and secondary fires, and the report detailed measures such as Home Fire Safety Visits and community engagement. Darren Cook, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, elaborated on arson reduction efforts and engagement with schools.

Councillor John Hale inquired about health and sickness figures, noting an increase in long-term sickness. Andy Paul, from HFRS, explained that the service takes staff well-being seriously and is introducing new mental health first aid training and well-being dogs.

Councillor Beth Kelly asked about the impact of changes to crew models and road traffic accidents. Darren Cook explained that changes to crew models had led to financial savings while maintaining service delivery, and that HFRS works with road safety partnerships on initiatives.

Councillor Adrian England questioned the significant year-on-year increase in incidents, linking it to potential El Niño effects. Alex Woodman, Chief Fire Officer, confirmed that HFRS is part of national conversations about wildfire threats and is adapting its response.

Councillor Paul Fisher asked about traffic congestion affecting engines and the condition of fire station accommodation. Andy Butler confirmed that station refurbishments are progressing, with planning applications submitted for temporary solutions. Darren Cook explained that station commanders have access to a web app showing road traffic congestion.

Councillor Maurice Bright commented on the report's presentation and asked about the realism of comparisons with other fire services. He also raised concerns about sickness levels and the age limit for cadets. John Boulter acknowledged the challenges of comparisons and that sickness levels are being monitored. Darren Cook explained the youth engagement framework and the role of volunteers.

Councillor Sean Prendergast praised the report and the engagement with younger people, but expressed disappointment at the lack of attendance at High Five events. Darren Cook explained the need to prioritise resources and target at-risk groups, with a current focus on Crucial Crew events.

The Panel noted the contents of the report.

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

David Dawe presented the update on the HFRS Community Risk Management Plan (CRMP) Delivery Plan for 2026-27. He highlighted the ongoing work across all five strategic areas of the CRMP: Protect, Excel, Transform, Engage, and Respond. The report detailed progress on various projects, including station refurbishments, the Longfield Service HQ development, and fleet replacement.

Councillor Mark Biddle raised concerns about oversight and assurance weaknesses, with several projects awaiting evaluation. David Dawe explained that timelines are built into the governance process to allow for changes to embed and be evaluated correctly. He also clarified the roles of the five oversight groups and the Staff Shadow Board.

Councillor Biddle also inquired about body-worn cameras, and David Dawe explained that these are being introduced for incident commanders to enhance safety and aid operational learning, with trials underway.

The Panel was asked to note the contents of the report.

HMICFRS Inspection Report and Action Plan

Mark Barber presented an update on HFRS's progress in responding to the findings of the HMICFRS inspection and the accelerated cause of concern. He reported significant progress in addressing recommendations, with a more rigorous assurance process now in place. Barber stated that HFRS aims to move beyond 'good' performance to achieve 'outstanding' where possible. He noted that all five recommendations related to the accelerated cause of concern are believed to have been addressed, pending final validation. The next phase of inspection activity begins in November 2026.

Councillor Mark Biddle asked about prevention capacity and sustainability, and ACFO Darren Cook explained that a prevention review has been completed, with actions underway to improve resource allocation and effectiveness, including the Crucial Crew initiative. He assured that the reconstruction would be tangible and measurable.

Councillor Beth Kelly inquired about the establishment of a robust workforce plan. ACFO Butler explained that a strategic workforce plan has been introduced, monitored quarterly, and is helping to plan training courses to avoid operational gaps.

The Panel was asked to note the contents of the report.

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

Aideen Dunne and Mark presented an update on the Public Health Prevention Investment Programme (PHIP), focusing on the Nourish Hertfordshire and Healthy Ageing programmes.

The Nourish Hertfordshire programme, led by School Food Matters, aims to improve school food provision for children. It has recruited 11 primary schools in its first year, with plans to expand to secondary and SEND schools. The programme includes developing school food policies, improving food education, and encouraging positive relationships with food. The University of Hertfordshire is evaluating the programme's effectiveness.

The Age Friendly: Live Better programme, led by Age UK in partnership with others, aims to improve the health, wellbeing, and inclusion of older residents. It focuses on reducing loneliness, improving access to inclusive infrastructure, strengthening age-friendly policies, and shifting behaviours to encourage activity. Initiatives include a community toilet scheme, an Age-Friendly Ambassador Volunteer Program, and plans for a Chatty Bus scheme.

Councillor Beth Kelly asked Joanna about the low percentage of young people eating five portions of fruit and veg a day and if young people are involved in cooking or growing vegetables. Joanna confirmed that young people's voices are central to the programme, with surveys, panels, and gardening opportunities. She also noted that new government school food standards will require every meal to include fruit and vegetables. Councillor Kelly also asked if Hertfordshire County Council had signed the Age-Friendly Employer Pledge. Mark stated this was an action to look into.

Councillor Paul Seeby expressed keen interest in how data on healthy food access and weight issues is being used to influence strategy, and how the Ageing Well project will be assessed, particularly in areas where people are ageing quicker. Aideen Dunne explained that data from various sources is used to target schools and interventions to have the most impact on health inequalities. Mark added that locality leads are collecting data to inform future evaluations.

Councillor Mark Biddle raised concerns about projected underspends in both programmes and asked for assurances that momentum would not be compromised. Aideen Dunne and Mark assured that the underspends are linked to recruitment timelines and that the three-year programmes allow for flexibility to meet targets. They also confirmed that providers are engaged with officers to avoid duplication of work.

The Panel was asked to note the contents of the report.

Motion – Prostate Cancer Screening

Councillor Morris Bright moved a motion calling for improved prostate cancer awareness and early detection in Hertfordshire. He highlighted that prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men in England, with higher risks for Black men and those with a family history. He stressed the importance of early diagnosis for better outcomes and noted the current lack of a dedicated county-wide strategy or awareness campaign. Councillor Seeby, seconding the motion, shared his personal experience and the excellent service he received at Cheshunt Community Hospital.

Councillor Mark Biddle asked how the proposed work would ensure sensitive and culturally competent support for men fearful of cancer or distrustful of health services. Geraldine Bruce, Principal Health Protection Specialist, stated that existing inclusion groups and trained staff are well-versed in engaging with diverse communities. She also addressed a question about support for partners and carers, suggesting this would be a matter for health providers.

Councillor John Hale spoke in support, emphasizing the need for greater publicity and acknowledging the limitations of current PSA testing. He welcomed the motion as a way to raise awareness, particularly among at-risk groups.

Geraldine Bruce confirmed that Public Health supports most of the motion, but not the request to write to the Secretary of State for a national screening programme, as a national programme is already being rolled out from 2027. She assured that the rest of the motion's points would be supported, including awareness campaigns and targeted programmes.

The Panel voted to support the motion, with the amendment that the letter to the Secretary of State would focus on a national communication campaign rather than a screening programme, as a national screening programme is already in place.

Motion – Growing Demand for Health Services in Hertfordshire

Councillor Dee Hart moved a motion highlighting concerns about variable access to GP, dental, and mental health services in Hertfordshire, growing demand due to an ageing population, and issues with hospital facilities and cancer services. She also raised concerns about the impact of Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) on local decision-making and the proposed abandonment of Healthwatch. The motion called for a clear statement on cancer services, meaningful engagement with local communities, prioritisation of urgent care in the South West, closer working between councils and the NHS, and for the Chair to write to Hertfordshire MPs to lobby for improvements.

Councillor Mark Biddle asked how Hertfordshire County Council ensures local needs are not diluted by multi-county ICBs and how meaningful engagement will be guaranteed. David Conrad and Sarah, from Public Health, explained that the responsibility for local patient engagement will move to ICBs and local authorities if Healthwatch is abandoned, and that close working between the local authority and NHS partners is crucial. They acknowledged that the exact mechanisms are still being worked out.

Councillor Paul Seeby suggested looking at health equalities and highlighted the importance of addressing deprivation and access to healthy food.

Councillor Morris Bright spoke in support, emphasizing that the motion stems from resident frustration and anxiety, and that health remains a key concern. He supported writing to MPs to convey these concerns.

The Chair, Ajanta Hilton, stated that while the council supports the principles of the motion, they cannot support all aspects due to limitations in their responsibilities compared to the ICB and NHS England. However, she agreed to write to MPs to highlight the urgency and resident concerns, particularly regarding cancer services.

The Panel voted to support the motion, with the understanding that the council would explain its limitations to Cabinet.

Cabinet Panel Work Programme 2026/27

The Panel reviewed the proposed work programme for 2026/27. Councillor Mark Biddle raised questions about the governance arrangements for the recommissioning of safe accommodation and drug and alcohol services, and how service continuity would be ensured. Sarah, from Public Health, explained that teams have experience in recommissioning major services and that planning begins well in advance to ensure safe transitions. She assured that further information and assurance on these specific plans would be provided at future meetings.

The Panel noted the work programme.

The meeting concluded at 1:13 pm.