The Health and Wellbeing Board of Shropshire Council is scheduled to convene on Thursday 17 September 2026. The meeting's agenda includes discussions on system winter planning, the annual health protection report, and proposals for the Health and Wellbeing Board's strategy for 2028-2033. Other topics slated for consideration are updates on healthy neighbourhoods, pharmacy services, and the Chair's report.

System Winter Planning

The Board is scheduled to receive an update on the Integrated Care Board's (ICB) cluster plan for responding to winter pressures. This plan aims to build on the successful approach from the previous year, with adjustments made based on identified learning. The report highlights that there is no central government or NHS England supplementary winter funding expected this year, which is now considered the norm. The plan outlines a phased structure: delivering programmes to enter winter on a solid footing, reducing rising pressure during the onset of winter, recovery in the new year, sustaining the response, and transitioning from winter in good order. A key element of the plan is the Think approach to the Winter Comms campaign, designed as a shared behaviour-change initiative to help people navigate services effectively. Partners are being asked to support the campaign, particularly by promoting the importance of seasonal vaccinations, and to collaborate on resolving issues.

Health Protection Annual Report

A report is scheduled to be presented that provides an overview of the health protection status of Shropshire's population, covering communicable, waterborne, and foodborne diseases. The report includes recommendations to promote childhood and seasonal vaccine uptake, as well as contraception and regular STI testing. It notes that while childhood vaccination coverage in Shropshire remains above regional and national averages, HPV vaccination coverage has seen a decrease. The report also details the autumn/winter flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccination campaigns, indicating that flu vaccination uptake in Shropshire is consistently above averages. Cancer screening uptake is described as strong, exceeding regional and national averages for breast and bowel cancer screening. However, cervical screening coverage, while relatively high, requires continued efforts, particularly among younger eligible women. The report also covers communicable disease activity, noting a substantial amount of health protection work driven by gastrointestinal infections and outbreaks in care homes. Tuberculosis incidence in Shropshire remains low and stable. Developments in health protection include a time-limited offer for MenB vaccinations and a vaccination inequalities project aimed at improving uptake among underserved communities. The report also provides an update on sexual and reproductive health services, noting that sexual health outcomes in Shropshire are generally better than the England average, although HIV testing rates are lower and a higher proportion of HIV diagnoses are made at a late stage.

HWBB Strategy 2028-33 Proposals

The Board is scheduled to discuss proposals for developing the next Joint Local Health and Wellbeing Strategy, which will cover the period from 2028 to 2033. This follows the current strategy, which runs until 2027. The proposed approach involves working backwards from a final approval point in late 2027, incorporating a formal consultation period of 6-8 weeks and early co-production activities to shape the draft before consultation. The report outlines the purpose of a Joint Local Health and Wellbeing Strategy as providing a shared vision and priorities for improving health and wellbeing and reducing health inequalities. The proposed timeline includes phases for set-up and governance confirmation, evidence refresh and priority refinement, early engagement and co-production, drafting the strategy, HWBB draft approval for consultation, public consultation, final revisions, and final HWBB approval.

Healthy Neighbourhoods Update

An update is scheduled on the progress of the Healthy Neighbourhoods Programme. This programme aims to establish a single, locally owned Neighbourhood Health Plan, building on the national Neighbourhood Health Framework. A shared vision, common purpose, and guiding principles have been developed by partners across health and care, local government, primary care, and the voluntary, community, and social enterprise (VCSE) sector. The report highlights that Integrated Neighbourhood Teams (INTs) are progressing, supported by £2.9 million of recurrent investment across Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin. Shropshire Community Health NHS Trust (ShropCom) has been identified as the lead integrator organisation. The initial phase of delivery will focus on frailty and people living with cardiovascular, renal, and metabolic conditions. A key priority is the establishment of INTs covering the whole population by July 2027. Five draft neighbourhood footprints have been identified as an initial planning assumption, with final arrangements requiring Board consideration and agreement. A recent visit from Dr Claire Fuller, NHS England Medical Director (Primary Care), recognised the system's remarkable progress in developing its neighbourhood health approach.

Chair's Report

The Chair's report is expected to cover national and local developments regarding the future of Healthwatch and the wider independent patient voice. It is noted that current Healthwatch duties, funding, and contractual commitments remain unchanged until new legislation is enacted. Locally, discussions are ongoing with partners to understand the implications of proposed changes and ensure continuity of an effective and independent patient voice. Healthwatch Shropshire continues to gather insight and provide constructive challenge. The report will also mention Shropshire's selection to participate in the national Better Care Fund (BCF) Support Programme, which offers opportunities for learning and sharing best practice to strengthen the Health and Wellbeing Board's strategic leadership role.

Pharmacy Updates

The Board is scheduled to receive updates on pharmacy services, specifically concerning the Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment (PNA). The PNA is described as a crucial part of the market entry system and supports commissioning decisions based on patient needs. The Health and Wellbeing Board has a statutory duty to prepare the PNA for Shropshire and communicate subsequent updates to the pharmaceutical list. The report details a reduction in hours for Cambrian Pharmacy in Oswestry, from 100 hours per week to 74 hours per week, effective from 7 September 2026.