The Health and Wellbeing Board met on Thursday 10 October 2024 to discuss a range of public health issues, including obesity, suicide prevention, and support for rough sleepers. Key decisions included noting the findings of the Healthy Weight Joint Strategic Needs Assessment and the Suicide Prevention Annual Report, and agreeing to further develop the Board's operational effectiveness.

Tackling Obesity in City and Hackney

The Board reviewed the draft findings of the 2024 Healthy Weight Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (JSNA) and an accompanying review of the local 'whole system' response to tackling obesity. The JSNA highlights that in 2022/23, one in five children in Reception and two in five in Year 6 in City and Hackney were above a healthy weight, with obesity prevalence being significantly higher in Year 6 than the London and England averages. For adults, around half in the City and 60% in Hackney with a recorded BMI were overweight or obese in 2023. The report identified that sex, ethnicity, and deprivation are associated with higher obesity rates in both children and adults. It was noted that nearly half of pregnant women are above a healthy weight at their booking appointment, with higher prevalence among certain ethnic groups and those with disabilities.

The review of the 'whole system' response identified several recommendations across key themes: System Leadership, Evidence and Data, Healthy Environments, Training and Capacity Building, Tackling Inequality, Settings and Life Course Approaches, Cross-Sector Collaboration, and Communications and Engagement. Key recommendations include re-establishing a Healthy Weight Strategic Partnership, refreshing the Healthier City and Hackney framework, improving data collection on environmental determinants of obesity, and developing a comprehensive training plan for the workforce. The Board was asked how it could use its influence to implement these recommendations.

Suicide Prevention in Hackney

An annual report on suicide prevention in Hackney was presented, indicating that approximately 20 Hackney residents die by suicide per year. While the rate has fluctuated, the most recent three-year average (2020-2022) shows Hackney's rate is now above the national and Inner London averages. The report noted that approximately three-quarters of suspected suicides are men, and common risk factors include mental illness, substance use, debt, and housing concerns.

The Hackney Suicide Prevention Steering Group has reviewed its format and action plan. The new plan focuses on four key actions: improving awareness among resident-facing staff, enhancing suicide prevention in schools, developing a process for reviewing and responding to suicides, and creating a clear pathway for individuals identified as high-risk. Future areas for work could include supporting those experiencing crises at home, better identifying and supporting individuals who have previously attempted suicide, and addressing loneliness and isolation.

Community Voice: Rough Sleeping Pop-up

Sally Beaven, Chief Executive of Healthwatch Hackney, presented the work of The Brunch Bunch, a co-production group for individuals experiencing homelessness, substance misuse, and mental health issues. The group has developed a neighbourhood signposting leaflet and is planning a monthly rough-sleepers street stall from October to February, offering essential items, food, and a street doctor. They are also organising a Christmas wellbeing event. The Board was asked for support in securing a venue for the Christmas event, donations, and potential funding.

Development Session for the Hackney Health & Wellbeing Board

A report on a development session for the Hackney Health & Wellbeing Board, facilitated by the Local Government Association (LGA) Associates, was discussed. Feedback from interviews and the development session highlighted themes such as the meeting venue, public engagement, agenda setting, and the Board's culture. Recommendations included moving meetings from the council chamber, improving paper accessibility, and developing a clearer forward plan. The Board agreed to accept an invitation for a joint meeting with the City & Hackney Health and Care Board.

Population Health Hub Update & Health Inequalities Funding

An update was provided on projects funded by the Population Health Hub and health inequalities funding. In 2022/23, City and Hackney received £875,000, funding projects such as MATCH (embedding health equity), foot health for housebound patients, resident engagement for youth hubs, and community chest grants for voluntary sector organisations. A further £821,000 was allocated for 2023/24. The report summarised learnings from these projects, with ongoing work to collate evidence for cost-effectiveness.

Other Matters

The Board noted that the minutes of the previous meeting held on 27 June 2024 were agreed as an accurate record. There were no declarations of interest. Apologies for absence were received from several members. The next meeting is scheduled for 23 January 2025.