Climate Change Adaptation for England's Health and Care System

The UK's Climate Change Act 2008 requires public sector organisations to consider the risks posed by climate change and report on their preparation and planning for adaptation. For the first time, a comprehensive report for... [ view full abstract ]

The UK's Climate Change Act 2008 requires public sector organisations to consider the risks posed by climate change and report on their preparation and planning for adaptation. For the first time, a comprehensive report for the whole of the health and care system in England has been prepared. A multi-sectorial system approach was considered most appropriate because it provides greater insights into the state of climate change preparedness and capacity to adapt in this sector. It also means that synergies and barriers can be identified so that areas for further collaboration can be recognised.

The following parts of the health and care system have been considered:
- National Bodies representing the health sector in England;
- Providers of NHS services (including Ambulance Trusts);
- Family doctors, dental practitioners;
- Voluntary Sector represented by Joseph Rowntree Foundation and National Council of Voluntary Organisations;
- Clinical Commissioning Groups;
- Health and Wellbeing Boards.

The report was prepared by a team from all the above sectors, led by the Sustainable Development Unit (SDU).
Three elements are considered for each part of the health and care system:
- Risk Assessment;
- Adaptation Planning;
- Impact/Evaluation of Adaptation Actions.
Where possible other areas are addressed including:
- Opportunities;
- Assumptions and uncertainties;
- Barriers to implementation of adaptation plans;
- Useful tools, support, guidance.

A considerable amount of information is routinely collected by the health and care system (e.g. syndromic surveillance) and this adaptation report draws predominantly on these sources, also highlighting areas where key information is still needed.

This is the first comprehensive adaptation report for a country's health and care system.