Delivering equity where it matters most: neighbourhoods, communities and place
The HSJ Reducing Health Inequalities Forum brings together senior leaders from across the NHS, government, local systems, and the voluntary sector to address one of the most urgent and persistent challenges in healthcare: how to deliver measurable, system-wide progress on health inequalities.
As the NHS enters a new phase of reform under the 10-Year Health Plan, expectations are shifting - from ambition to accountability. Systems are now expected not only to prioritise equity, but to demonstrate real-world impact across prevention, access, experience, and outcomes.
This Forum provides a focused, high-level environment to explore what meaningful progress looks like in practice - from neighbourhood delivery and prevention to data, workforce and system leadership.
Join us on 18 May 2026 at The Eastside Rooms, Birmingham and be part of shaping how the NHS delivers equity over the next decade.
What will be discussed?
- From ambition to accountability How the NHS will translate national priorities into measurable progress on health inequalities, with clearer expectations for delivery, oversight and system performance.
- Neighbourhood health as the engine of equity How place-based models can embed prevention, strengthen local partnerships, and target inequalities at community and household level.
- Prevention that reaches everyone Practical approaches to tackling major drivers of inequality - including cancer, cardiovascular and metabolic health - through earlier intervention and targeted outreach.
- Closing access and experience gaps How systems can improve access, experience and outcomes across underserved populations, with a focus on mental health and culturally competent care.
- Data, insight and digital equity Using data, analytics and AI to better understand need, target interventions and ensure digital transformation supports - rather than widens - equity.
- Partnerships and system leadership Strengthening collaboration across the NHS, local government and the voluntary sector to address wider determinants and deliver long-term change.
