Message from Director of Public Health
Message from Director of Public Health
I am proud to share the Wandsworth Annual Director of Public Health Report for 2026, Rooted in Reality: Community Voices, Community Action. This report is a tribute to our remarkable voluntary and community organisations, grassroots leaders, and the countless volunteers who give their time, energy and creativity to make Wandsworth a healthier, more connected place.
The Council’s prevention framework highlights the three interconnected levels for embedding prevention and addressing inequalities – person, community and environment. The voluntary and community sector is at the heart of the framework, helping to address factors that protect and create health and wellbeing for communities.
Voluntary and community groups involve and empower local communities, contributing to positive health and wellbeing using their skills, knowledge, commitment, friendships, physical, environmental and economic resources to support the community, especially disadvantaged groups.
Their efforts - from supporting healthier food choices, to creating spaces for movement, belonging and mutual support - show the strength of community-led action, that challenges health inequalities and creates opportunities for everyone to thrive.
Thank you to every organisation, network and individual who has shaped this resource. Your leadership, stories and dedication are the heartbeat of this report.
Inclusive access
Our aim is for every resident, partner and organisation to be able to engage with this report in the way that works best for them.
We recognise that not everyone prefers or is able to access information online. This digital report has been designed to offer flexibility, accessibility and choice. Alongside viewing it on the website, you can download and print the report, request printed copies, large-print versions and easy-read summaries through the Public Health team.
This report can also be made available in other languages on request.
