The JOINT OSC FOR THE NE & NORTH CUMBRIA ICS & NORTH & CENTRAL ICPS met on Monday 20 July 2026 to discuss the structure and work programme of the committee, as well as presentations on neighbourhood health, proposed boundary changes, and a Work Well initiative. The meeting agenda also included the appointment of a Chair and Vice-Chair for the upcoming municipal year.

Appointment of Chair and Vice-Chair

The committee was scheduled to discuss the appointment of a Chair and a Vice-Chair for the 2026/27 municipal year, in line with its terms of reference.

Terms of Reference

Members were asked to note the attached Protocol/Terms of Reference for the Joint Committee. This protocol outlines the framework for considering proposed formal consultations related to the Integrated Care System (ICS) for the North East and North Cumbria, and any subsequent proposals for substantial development and variation to health services. The protocol details the scope of the Joint Committee's remit, which includes Primary Care Networks and various NHS Foundation Trusts across Northumberland, Tyne and Wear, and Durham, as well as local authorities within these areas.

The terms of reference, as detailed in Appendix 1 of the protocol, specify the committee's role in considering the development of the ICS, reviewing plans for public and stakeholder consultation, and examining any options for service change. The committee is empowered to request information from relevant NHS Bodies and require officers to attend meetings to answer questions. A key objective is to ensure that any formal consultation response includes the views of all constituent authorities, with specific reasons for any lack of consensus.

Neighbourhood Health

A presentation on Neighbourhood Health was scheduled to be delivered by Martin Short, Director of Commissioning.

Proposed Boundary Changes

Dan Jackson was due to present on Proposed Boundary Changes.

Work Well

Another presentation from Dan Jackson was scheduled, focusing on the Work Well initiative.

Work Programme 2026/27

The committee was scheduled to review its Work Programme for the 2026/27 period. The agenda indicated that this item would cover topics for consideration at future meetings, including the items discussed at this meeting.

Disclosure of Members' Interests

The agenda also included a standard item regarding the disclosure of members' interests. This process requires members to declare any Disclosable Pecuniary Interests (DPIs), Other Registrable Interests, or Non-Registerable Interests that may arise in relation to the matters being discussed, in accordance with the council's Code of Conduct and relevant legislation, such as the Localism Act 2011. The protocol provided detailed guidance on the nature of these interests and the procedures for non-participation in discussions or voting where a conflict of interest exists.