Policy case study - Prevention Framework
Policy Case Study
Prevention Framework
Project Summary
The Public Health Prevention Framework has transformed how Wandsworth tackles health inequalities by placing prevention at the centre of local decision-making. Rather than responding only when problems arise, the framework enables partners to address the root causes of poor health early, equitably and sustainably.
By embedding prevention across policies, strategies and community-led initiatives, the framework has strengthened collaboration between the Council, the Integrated Care Board and the voluntary and community sector. This shared approach ensures that resident voices shape priorities, resources are aligned, and interventions are designed to build healthier, more resilient communities.
Key Activities
Embedding prevention across all policies
The framework has guided strategic shifts across Council teams and partner organisations, ensuring prevention is considered in every major decision, service design and investment.
Wandsworth Moves Together strategy
A new borough-wide strategy promoting physical activity across three levels of the framework: Active People, Active Communities, and Active Environments.
Targeted community engagement through the ICB
The South West London Integrated Care Board uses the framework to understand population needs, engage directly with communities and design tailored interventions and communication campaigns.
Expanding access to physical activity
More than 4,000 residents have used the Access for All scheme to access leisure centres where cost is a barrier.
Community, Sport and Physical Activity Network
A cross-sector network now coordinates accessible, community-shaped opportunities for residents who face barriers to being active. Estate-based programmes, including community gardening and physical activity sessions, are tailored to local preferences.
Evidence-based work on cervical screening
The ICB partnered with the Institute for Voluntary Action Research to address low cervical screening uptake among South Asian communities. Co-produced insights informed new communication tools, including culturally sensitive cartoon-based resources to spark conversations and dispel myths.
International recognition and learning exchange
In March 2025, the Norwegian Directorate of Health visited Wandsworth to learn from the borough’s prevention-focused projects and the impact of the framework in practice.
Impact and Outcomes
A more coordinated, prevention-driven system:
Partners now share a common language and approach to tackling health inequalities, leading to more aligned priorities and efficient use of resources.
Greater equity in access to physical activity:
Thousands of residents facing financial, cultural or environmental barriers now have tailored opportunities to get active.
Stronger community voice in health improvement:
Community insights directly shape interventions, ensuring they are culturally relevant, accessible and grounded in lived experience.
Innovative approaches to health communication:
New tools — such as co-produced cartoons for cervical screening — have improved understanding and engagement among underrepresented groups.
Growing national and international interest:
Wandsworth’s prevention-led approach is increasingly recognised as a model of good practice, attracting attention from health systems beyond the UK.
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