Integrated Care Systems in the East of England are being urged to address health inequalities to build thriving communities
A new report published by public health and local government bodies has laid out key recommendations for strengthening the integration of health and housing across Integrated Care Systems (ICSs).
The Healthy Homes report highlights the link between housing conditions and health, aiming to help regional leaders enhance cross-sector collaboration to improve overall community wellbeing across East England.
The guidance, created by the East of England Local Government Association (EELGA) in partnership with Public Health East of England, the East of England All Party Parliamentary Group, and IMPOWER Consulting, encourages a more preventative approach that addresses the root causes of poor health rather than focusing on treatment.
The five guiding principles of the strategy include establishing a shared understanding of health and housing challenges, aligning strategies across sectors, engaging diverse partners, agreeing roles and accountabilities, and ensuring that goals translate into practical actions at community level.
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The data shows how local councils in areas with high levels of deprivation can improve outcomes for vulnerable populations by addressing factors such as housing quality, affordability and access to vital services.
Healthy life expectancy in the East of England is higher than the national average, with men living 64.6 years and women 65, compared to England’s average of 63.5 years for both genders. However, there are disparities within the region, such as Luton falling 5.2 years below the East’s average, while Central Bedfordshire exceeds it by 2.3 years.
The region also has a high dependency ratio, with a larger proportion of the population aged 0-14 and over 65 compared to those aged between 15 and 64. This ageing demographic increases the demand for supported housing and related services.
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