On Thursday 7th May 2026, voters across England will elect over 4,850 councillors. A significant electoral moment for elected members to place health and wellbeing at the heart of local governance.

A political briefing document is available here.

At a time of significant reform and renewed focus on the impact of place on health of people, the UK Healthy Cities and Towns Network supports local authorities to deliver key national priorities, including Healthy New Towns, Pride in Place and devolution. By embedding “Health in All Policies,” local authorities can strengthen outcomes across planning, housing, transport and economic development.

As a designated national network of the World Health Organization Regional Office for Europe, the UK Network connects towns and cities to a successful international movement advancing health, equity and sustainable development. Membership provides direct access to global expertise, evidence and policy frameworks, while showcasing innovative work from the UK on a European stage.

Central to the Network’s approach is citizen empowerment and engagement. It promotes meaningful participation, ensuring the voices of local people shape the design of towns and cities – creating places that are inclusive, vibrant and responsive to community needs.

Through collaboration, shared learning and cross-sector partnerships, councils can address health inequalities, respond to climate challenges and build resilient and prepared communities. The UK Network also enables local innovation to inform wider European policy, reinforcing the UK’s leadership in public health practice. Working with members of the UK Healthy Cities and Towns Network provides an opportunity to champion healthier, equal and more resilient communities while shaping the delivery of services and leading local government reorganisation.

To find out more email ukhcn@belfasthealthycities.com or visit our LinkedIn page here.