The Scrutiny Health & Social Care Sub-Committee met on Tuesday 03 February 2026. The committee discussed the Older People Needs Assessment, the Neighbourhood Health and Care Implementation Programme, and the Adults Living Independently Transformation Programme. The committee also received an update from Healthwatch Croydon and reviewed the scrutiny work programme.

Older People Needs Assessment

The committee reviewed the Older People Needs Assessment, which highlighted a projected 25% increase in Croydon's over-65 population by 2030. Councillors requested more detailed mapping of where older residents live and the distribution of healthy and unhealthy life expectancy across the borough. The assessment revealed significant health inequalities, with a notable gap between life expectancy and healthy life expectancy in some areas. The committee was informed that Croydon's dementia diagnosis rate of 81.1% is significantly higher than national and London averages, which is seen as a positive indicator of effective identification pathways. Concerns were raised about the balance between making savings and maintaining care thresholds, with assurances given that all individuals meeting the criteria for care under the Care Act would receive it. The report also noted an 85% reduction in care home admissions, which was discussed in terms of whether this indicated improved independence or unmet need.

Neighbourhood Health and Care: National Neighbourhood Health Implementation Programme (NNHIP)

Croydon has been selected as one of 43 Wave 1 sites for the National Neighbourhood Health Implementation Programme (NNHIP). This programme aims to improve joined-up, proactive, and preventative multi-disciplinary team working in the community. The committee heard that the programme is in its early stages, with test and learn pilots underway. Concerns were raised about patient agency and how residents would be aware of and involved in the Programme. The initiative is intended to shift care from hospitals to communities and focus on prevention, with a particular emphasis on residents with multiple long-term conditions. The committee requested that quantifiable data, including mapping and age profiles of the target cohort, be included in future updates. The Programme is currently resource neutral, with existing resources from partner organisations and the Better Care Fund being utilised.

Adults Living Independently Transformation Programme and savings update for 2025/26 and 2026/27

The committee received an update on the Adults Living Independently (ALI) transformation programme, which aims to support residents to live more independently and achieve financial savings. The programme is on track to deliver its savings targets, with a projected £15 million in savings annually by 2029. The committee heard that the Occupational Therapy (OT) service had successfully cleared its backlog of assessments and reviews, although demand continues to outstrip capacity. The reablement service has been expanded, and a reablement app is being used to set goals with residents and track their progress. The committee raised concerns about the level of detail provided regarding the 2026/27 budget and savings proposals, particularly the £6.156 million in savings for the ALI programme. Assurances were given that savings proposals are rigorously tested to ensure they do not undermine care quality or statutory duties. The committee noted that the programme is being led by GPs and that a national NHS team is providing expertise.

Update from Healthwatch Croydon

Healthwatch Croydon presented findings from their reports on Type 2 diabetes care among Black African and Caribbean residents and on neurodiversity and healthcare access. For Type 2 diabetes, respondents highlighted a need for more culturally appropriate dietary and lifestyle advice, better representation in healthcare, and improved communication and follow-up. The report suggested using community-led initiatives, such as church outreach and lived experience assessor groups, to improve engagement and support. Regarding neurodiversity, participants reported significant challenges in accessing healthcare, including long waiting times for diagnosis, a lack of understanding from professionals, and a need for tailored support. Recommendations included improving access to diagnosis and post-diagnosis support, increasing training for healthcare professionals, and promoting wider understanding of neurodiversity. The committee expressed strong support for the principles of Healthwatch and the independent voice it provides, noting concerns about potential changes to its structure.

Scrutiny Work Programme 2025-2026

The committee reviewed its draft work programme for the upcoming municipal year. Members suggested adding items such as a virtual ward visit, deep dives into the sensory impairment team, supported living, property adaptations, and asylum-seeking young people. The committee also recommended the use of an action log to track the progress of actions agreed during meetings. An item on the governance of Prevention of Future Death reports was also suggested for a future meeting.