88 local people attended the quarterly North West London residents’ forum on Monday 24 November. They heard presentations on neighbourhood health, children and young people’s mental health, and the planned merger with North Central London Integrated Care Board.
The session, chaired by Anita Charlesworth, was constructive, honest and highly engaged, with residents offering reflections, concerns and practical ideas drawn from their lived experiences.
Rory Hegarty, Director of Communications and Involvement for NHS North West London, said:
“These are important meetings where local people can directly question NHS leaders, hear about the initiatives we have planned and contribute towards the future of their health services. We want to thank everyone who came along and contributed to what was a very positive and informative discussion.”
North West London and North Central London Integrated Care Board merger
Frances O’Callaghan, newly appointed CEO outlined the development of the new Integrated Care Board, created following the national requirement for all ICBs to reduce running costs by 50 per cent. She explained how the merged organisation will work with local authorities, maintain key responsibilities such as safeguarding and SEND, and continue to uphold NHS principles.
"Thank you, Frances… it’s good to know you’re recognising the workforce issues, people are absolutely key."
"This meeting is concentrating on the right things – what matters to us in the community."
Neighbourhood Health
David Williams and Dr Andrew Steeden presented the neighbourhood health model, which brings GPs, community nurses, children’s services, social care and voluntary organisations together to provide more joined-up, proactive support. They shared examples of how coordinated care planning is improving outcomes for children, older people and those with complex needs.
“This partnership working is wonderful. It’s a pleasure to finally see some of these ideas taking root.
"When my GP refers me to hospital, I wait five, six, eight months to get through the door.”
Children and young people’s mental health
Dr Tamsin Robinson presented the emerging strategy for children’s mental health, learning disability and neurodiversity. She shared insights gathered from more than 700 children and young people, stressing the need for earlier support, safe spaces, creativity, family involvement and better recognition of behavioural distress.
"Brilliant, you went out, you asked, and you’ve built on what you learned from the children.
"Thank you so much, Tamsin, this is exactly the kind of work we need for our young people."
The slide packs from the event (slide pack 1 and 2 PDF) are available.