A major new initiative aimed at strengthening public health services across England will be led by the Local Government Association over the next three years.
Backed by funding from the Department of Health and Social Care, the programme will launch in June 2026 and work directly with councils to improve health outcomes and support local public health teams.
The initiative will focus on helping councils enhance their public health capabilities, including through peer reviews designed to identify best practice and areas for improvement.
Developed in partnership with local authorities and Directors of Public Health, the programme aims to ensure support is tailored to the specific needs of communities while aligning with local priorities.
The programme forms a key part of the Government’s long-term vision for prevention, as outlined in its 10-year health plan. Local government is expected to play a pivotal role in improving population health and reducing pressure on NHS services.
Public health teams will be supported across core areas, including health protection, health improvement and healthcare public health – helping to tackle inequalities and promote healthier communities.
A central aim of the programme is to ensure councils can make the most effective use of resources, including the Local Authority Public Health Grant.
Chair of the Local Government Association, Cllr Louise Gittins, said:
“Councils are committed to improving the lives of local people across the country, through locally tailored services that prevent illness, address the root causes of poor health, and reduce inequalities.
“We are pleased to be leading the public health improvement and support programme, helping councils to continuously improve their services. It will give councils the space, support and insight they need to celebrate what’s working, tackle what’s getting in the way, and accelerate progress for their communities.
“The LGA’s councillor and officer peers are at the heart of the LGA’s sector support offers and continue to provide highly valued, expert support. It’s about learning together, improving together, and unlocking the full potential of local public health.
“Given the central role of councils to its ambitions, we look forward to working with the Government through this programme and more widely to deliver the 10-year Health Plan for England.”
By strengthening how funding is used, the initiative seeks to improve the delivery of statutory public health duties and key outcome targets, including those set out in the Local Outcomes Framework.
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