Local authorities, or councils, receive money locally and from national government which goes towards funding and managing a range of services that support our wellbeing and prevent ill health.
The six local authorities in South West London – Croydon, Kingston, Merton, Richmond, Sutton and Wandsworth – play a vital role in improving health and wellbeing outcomes and in reducing health inequalities.
Working as part or a wider health and care system gives local authorities the potential to improve population health and wellbeing through the leadership of public health teams.
Our health is affected by many factors, like housing, unemployment, financial stress, domestic abuse, transport, poverty and lifestyle choices. As part of South West London ICS, our local authorities are collaborating with local residents, the NHS and community and voluntary organisations to addresstheses wider determinants of health. The steps we are taking to improve the health and wellbeing of our communities are included in their plans and policies housing, early years, growth, skills and employment.
Our local authorities also have huge amounts of information about their area which they now share with health services. This includes things like poverty and housing problems. Sharing this information data across the ICS allows us to work together to develop plans and services to improve things for our communities.
Local authorities also run social services. Being part of the ICS means that the local NHS and local authorities can join up health and social care at all levels in the system, creating better outcomes and a less fragmented experience for patients and users. For example, if somebody is leaving hospital they can make sure that there is support for the patient, either when they get home or in a care home.
Find out more about our local authorities on their websites: