Healthier Together 2040

What we already know

The first phase of Healthier Together 2040 has reviewed national and local trends to shape how the local health and care system might need to change by 2040. Here are some important considerations:

  • People will likely live for longer in poor health, experiencing multiple health conditions from a younger age.
  • Individuals in more deprived areas will face these health challenges at a higher rate and at younger age, driven by inequalities and a collision of health and social factors.
  • The working-age population is growing more slowly than older population groups, presenting workforce and economic challenges.
  • Many existing buildings, particularly in primary care, are no longer fit for purpose. With many more houses due to be built locally, the expected population increase will drive further demand.
  • Currently there is a concentration of health and care services in urban areas, while many older people live in rural communities.
  • A greater focus on mental wellbeing is needed, especially for young people, working-age adults, and healthcare staff.
  • New technologies including AI (Artificial Intelligence), treatments and digital health solutions, along with climate change, political and economic instability and potential future pandemics will present opportunities and potential threats.
Read our evidence review: ‘Understanding working-age adults affected by multiple long-term conditions and those at future risk’

Where does Healthier Together 2040 fit in?

Healthier Together 2040 will help enable local health and care services across Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire to move to a better future for people and staff over the next 15 years and beyond.

There are three linked projects as follows:

  1. The Integrated Care System (ICS) Strategy. This was published in 2023 when the ICS was first established. It helps to identify areas of priority and focus – informing the Joint Forward Plan.
  2. The Joint Forward Plan is updated every year as a five-year rolling plan which every Integrated Care Board in England is required to publish (on behalf of their ICS).
  3. The NHS 10 Year Plan is a national, health-focused plan setting out how England will create a truly modern health service designed to meet the changing needs of the population.