We’re pleased to highlight the significant “Fairer, Healthier Leeds: Reducing Health Inequalities” report, also known as the Leeds Marmot City Report. Published by the esteemed Institute of Health Equity (IHE), this comprehensive report marks a crucial milestone in our city’s ongoing commitment to address health disparities.
Leeds embarked on its journey as a Marmot City in 2023, committing to a two-year partnership with the IHE. This collaboration aimed to deepen our understanding of health inequalities across the city and develop strategic actions to tackle them head-on.
Understanding the Report’s Core Principles and Findings:
The Marmot approach is rooted in the principle of “joining up, scaling up, and being even bolder in our actions.” The “Fairer, Healthier Leeds” report details a two-phase programme:
- Year 1 (2023/24): A Whole-System Review. This phase involved a thorough examination of local data on health outcomes, broader determinants of health, and existing strategies. Key outputs included a comprehensive Year 1 report and executive summary, Leeds Marmot indicators, and city-wide recommendations with focused actions on critical areas such as housing and early years (0-5).
- Year 2 (2024/25): Focus on Delivery. Building on the insights from year one, the second year prioritised implementing city-wide recommendations and advancing specific work on housing and early childhood. A key focus also included addressing racism and discrimination (Marmot Principle 7) and strengthening community voice alongside inclusive economic approaches.
Why This Matters for Leeds:
This report reinforces Leeds’ ambition to “improve the health of the poorest the fastest.” It not only acknowledges the progress made but also provides clear recommendations that challenge us to go even further. Leeds is highlighted as a leading Marmot Place, demonstrating how health equity can be integrated across city-wide strategies, programmes, and services.
Forum Central, alongside Voluntary Action Leeds (VAL) and other partners, is deeply committed to this work and will continue to advocate for and engage with these crucial recommendations on behalf of the third sector. We believe that by working together, we can ensure a fairer, healthier future for all Leeds residents.
Access the Reports and Learn More:
To gain a deeper understanding of the work undertaken and the recommendations for a fairer, healthier Leeds, we encourage you to read the full reports.
For direct access to some of the most recent findings:
You can find all related documents and resources on the Institute of Health Equity’s dedicated page: Fairer, Healthier Leeds: Reducing Health Inequalities.
