URL: https://cmttpublic.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=2045

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose:

Content: Cabinet considered the report of the Director of Public Health and the Assistant Chief Executive – Director of Transformation and Strategy which set out proposed changes to partnership governance affecting the Health and Care Partnership Place Committee (Place Committee) and Health and Wellbeing Board (HWBB). The report sought approval to disband the Place Committee, with its functions consolidated in a reconstituted and strengthened Health and Wellbeing Board. This would become the governance forum to oversee integration of health and care and specifically the plan for Integrated Neighbourhoods, outlined in the NHS 10 Year Plan. This would include revised Terms of Reference and Membership arrangements to ensure the HWBB could continue to effectively discharge its statutory role.    Members noted that the proposed changes had been driven by partner feedback from a series of one-to-one conversations and workshops facilitated by the Local Government Association, bringing partners together to reflect on the current operating model of the HWBB and future governance needs. Members further noted that Place Committee members had been fully included in the work undertaken to inform these proposals and all those involved in the engagement had expressed a strong commitment to the HWBB with a renewed focus on tighter priorities and an action-focused approach.     Councillor Louise Gittins, Leader of the Council, led the discussion on the item as proposer and the item was seconded by Councillor Shelia Little, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care.    Members welcomed the report and supported the proposed approach, recognising that this would rationalise existing governance arrangements, remove duplication whilst saving Officer time, and align local structures with national policy and statutory expectations.   DECIDED:     That   1)            the proposal to disband the Place Committee be approved; 2)            it be noted that the Health and Wellbeing Board will bring forward revised Terms of Reference and membership arrangements for consideration by Council; and 3)            the proposed transition arrangements to ensure continuity of oversight of health and care integration be noted.   Reason for Decision   As set out in detail in section 3 of the report.   Alternative Options   If the proposal is not supported, Place Committee will continue. However this represents a duplication in partnership governance and reporting, with lines of accountability between strategy, neighbourhood delivery and system outcomes likely to become blurred as oversight of the Integrated Neighbourhood Plan progresses. It also requires senior leaders to attend further forums.  

Date of Decision: June 10, 2026