North Yorkshire Council
Scrutiny of Health Committee
Minutes of the meeting held on Friday, 3 July 2026 commencing at 10.00 am.
Councillor Andrew Lee in the Chair plus Councillors Liz Colling, Alyson Baker, Nick Brown, Caroline Dickinson, Caroline Goodrick (as substitute for Councillor Heather Moorhouse), Mike Jordan, John Mann, Rich Maw, Andrew Murday, Andy Paraskos, Clive Pearson and Andy Solloway.
Officers present: Matt Neligan, James Bromiley, and Dr Paul Williams (University Hospitals Tees), Charlotte Liddle and Anja Hazebroek (Humber and North Yorkshire Integrated Care Board), Marc Thomas, Rachel Pippin, and Amanda Wray (Yorkshire Ambulance Service), Ashley Green (Healthwatch North Yorkshire), and Edward Maxwell (Senior Democratic Services Officer).
Other Attendees: Two members of the public.
Apologies: Councillors Heather Moorhouse and David Noland.
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Copies of all documents considered are in the Minute Book
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658 |
Apologies for Absence
Apologies were received from Councillor Heather Moorhouse (with Councillor Caroline Goodrick substituting), and Councillor David Noland.
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659 |
Minutes of the Meetings held on 9 March 2026 and 8 May 2026
That the minutes of the meetings held on 9 March 2026 and 8 May 2026, having been printed and circulated, be taken as read and be confirmed and signed by the Chair as a correct record.
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660 |
Declarations of Interest
Councillor Mike Jordan declared non-registerable interests, as:
a) he was a member of Sherburn Group Practice Patient Participation Group;
b) his son was an employee of Yorkshire Ambulance Service, in relation to Minute 666.
Councillor Liz Colling declared a non-registerable interest, as a member of the Council of Governors of York and Scarborough Hospital Trust, appointed by North Yorkshire Council.
Councillor Nick Brown declared a non-registerable interest, as a Stakeholder Governor to the Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust.
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Public Participation
Two statements were received, which were read to the committee: Statement submitted by Adam Rimmer
Dear members of the committee,
My question relates to the rollout within North Yorkshire of the Federated Data Platform (FDP) provided by Palantir Technologies to NHS England.
Palantir has been criticised by the UN and Amnesty international for its likely complicity in human rights abuses across the globe, including but not limited to: oppressive surveillance in the US and Europe; facilitating the genocide in Gaza; involvement in the US-Israel war on Iran.
A publicly available online briefing document prepared by the human rights organisation MedAct has been shared with members of the committee prior to this meeting which details Palantir further; including significant concerns about data privacy and patient rights, as well as the contract being awarded by untransparent means.
The Parliamentary Science, Innovation and Technology Committee in June of 2026 has urged MPs to use the upcoming break clause in the Palantir contract during a contract review happening this autumn.
Through freedom of information requests it is publicly known that FDP products are in use across a number of trusts in the Humber and North Yorkshire Integrated Care Board (ICB).
Palantir’s involvement in the health service poses enormous threat to patient data privacy; the deepening of health inequalities; patient trust in health data systems; and potentiates the ongoing asset-stripping and privatisation of the NHS.
Finally, individual patient data is due to be removed from GP control and shared directly into the FDP from this autumn. NHS England have confirmed that there is no way for patients to directly opt-out of their data being used in the FDP - this power currently lies with GP practices as patient Data Controllers.
The decision of local trusts, the ICB and GP practices of whether or not to use Palantir’s FDP certainly falls within the scrutinising scope of this committee. There is no legally mandating basis for an organisation to use FDP products. This decision therefore sits at the level of our local institutions and would significantly impact local people for the reasons now outlined. The Sheffield City Council passed a motion on the 24th June 2026 resolving to call upon local and national executives, local MPs and local NHS and ICB chairs to freeze local integration with the FDP.
Will the committee:
Response from the Chair
The Chair thanked the member of the public for attending the meeting and raising the issue. It was explained that given the complexities surrounding the question of data integrity and third-party contracts, the Committee was not in a position to take action today. Instead, it was proposed that a report be prepared for a future meeting of the Committee, setting out the issues in detail and inviting comment from stakeholders and partners. This would ensure a comprehensive and detailed background which could form the basis of an informed debate. In response to a supplementary question as to the timing of the report, the Chair assured the member of the public that it would be as soon as possible, and at the next ordinary meeting of the Committee in October as possible.
Statement received from Roger Tuckett
I first addressed this Scrutiny of Health Committee in May 2022, shortly after a very concerning local Inquest. The need for an updated Autism Strategy for North Yorkshire was recognised.
This progressed, a new five-year Autism Strategy was eventually adopted by NYC in March 2025. A Community of Interest group was established by NYC, of which I have been a member since early 2025.
15 months post-launch, a number of those with lived experience have been disappointed with the level of engagement, co-production and co-creation. I raised the matter with the Exec Committee on Tues 16th June and discussions on this have since been taking place with Senior NYC Officers and Executive Member. The next quarterly meeting of the COI is due to take place the day before this meeting.
The successful implementation of the NY Autism Strategy rests not only with NYC, but also with TEWV, the ICB, the Combined Authority, other statutory service providers including education and criminal justice, and also involves wider societal change. It also requires careful monitoring and understanding of national developments.
Co-creation is required not only with those with lived experience (including carers) but also potential Third Sector providers of support, whether their operations are large or very small.
Questions:
Response from the Chair
The Chair thanked the member of the public for attending the meeting and speaking about this important issue. Noting that the Executive Member had already committed to work with the Community of Interest group, and that the Health and Wellbeing Board had the statutory responsibility for promoting integration across health and social care, the Chair advised that the Committee would request a copy of the Year 1 Update report as soon as it was prepared. This would allow Scrutiny to identify potential issues with delivery of the strategy or preparation of the plan, and form the basis of a further discussion in due course. The Chair noted the need for input from all stakeholders when developing strategies, to ensure the best outcomes for residents.
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662 |
Progress on Issues Raised by the Committee
The Committee considered the report of the Senior Democratic Services Officer, updating on progress on issues and actions raised at the last committee meeting.
Resolved: That the report be noted.
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663 |
University Hospitals Tees: Case for Change and Strategy
The Committee received a presentation from University Hospitals Tees on its Case for Change and emerging strategic plans for the future delivery of services across Teesside, East Durham and North Yorkshire. The presentation outlined the clinical, demographic, financial and estate-related challenges facing the Trust, including increasing demand, an ageing population, workforce pressures and the need for significant investment in hospital facilities. Members heard how the proposed strategy seeks to deliver more care in community settings, maximise the use of elective surgical hubs, consolidate some specialist acute services, and improve the long-term sustainability and quality of healthcare provision across the region.
Members sought assurance regarding a range of issues, including staff engagement, Hospital at Home services and parking capacity. It was reported that staff engagement was being undertaken through roadshows and workforce planning activity, with formal consultation to follow once proposals had been developed. In response to questions regarding Hospital at Home, it was explained that unnecessary hospital admissions could lead to poorer outcomes for some patients, particularly frail older people, and that greater emphasis was being placed on coordinated care delivered in people’s homes where clinically appropriate. Concerns regarding the sharing of learning from Hospital at Home schemes were acknowledged, with reference made to NHS networks and professional forums which support the exchange of best practice. It was reported that investment was being made to address parking pressures and that elements of the clinical strategy, including moving more outpatient and elective activity away from acute sites, would help reduce demand on hospital campuses. In response to comments on public engagement, it was emphasised that the aim of the proposed changes was to secure sustainable, high-quality services, with some specialist services concentrated on fewer sites while more care would be delivered closer to patients’ homes and communities.
Discussion also focused on the impact of geography, transport and rurality on access to services. Members stressed the importance of ensuring that service changes took account of public transport availability and the needs of patients attending multiple appointments. It was confirmed that these factors would form a key part of the decision-making process. Reassurance was also provided regarding the future of the Friarage Hospital in Northallerton, which was expected to continue as an important hub for community and outpatient services, delivered in partnership with local health and care organisations. The importance of maintaining effective engagement with patients, communities and representative bodies throughout the transformation programme was also recognised.
Resolved: That the report be noted, and the Committee request regular updates as the strategy progressed.
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664 |
Relocation of Harewood Medical Practice to CICC
The Committee received a report on the planned relocation of Harewood Medical Practice from Catterick Garrison Health Centre to the new Catterick Integrated Care Centre in late 2026. Members were advised that the move represented a change of premises only, with no changes to services, patient registration arrangements or clinical teams. The report highlighted the benefits of the modern integrated facility, including increased clinical capacity, improved accessibility and parking provision, and enhanced opportunities for joined-up working with community, mental health and MOD services. Assurance was provided that detailed transition, communication and contingency plans were in place to minimise disruption and maintain continuity of care throughout the relocation process.
Resolved: That the report be noted.
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665 |
Updates from Humber and North Yorkshire ICB
Members received a verbal update on arrangements at Reeth Medical Centre following the end of the previous contract. It was reported that patients had transferred to Central Dales Practice, with the option to register elsewhere if they wished, and that services were now being delivered through a branch surgery operating from the existing building. Members heard that GP and nursing services continued to be provided, alongside access to wider Primary Care Network services, although dispensing services were no longer available on site. An update was also provided on operational challenges, including missed appointments, dispensary workload and staffing changes. The Committee noted the positive changes which had been implemented, allowing some services to continue at the site, and expressed its thanks to all those who had supported that work.
The Committee also received an update on primary care estates and infrastructure. Members heard that many GP premises in North Yorkshire were ageing, constrained and no longer fully suited to modern models of care, with increasing demand for multidisciplinary working, group consultations and neighbourhood-based services. It was explained that whilst capital funding was available for certain improvements and modernisation projects, revenue funding remained a significant constraint, limiting opportunities for major extensions or new developments. Discussion took place regarding the role of Section 106 and Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding, with officers confirming that responses were submitted to planning consultations and that opportunities were being explored to secure funding for both strategic developments and smaller improvements, particularly in rural areas. Potential projects discussed included dispensary infrastructure and the redevelopment of premises to create additional clinical space.
Concerns were also raised about the adequacy of healthcare infrastructure to support housing growth, the availability and timing of developer contributions, signage at the Scarborough Community Diagnostic Centre, and parking provision at primary care sites. Officers acknowledged these issues and confirmed that they were considered through planning responses, estate strategies and commissioning processes. Members also discussed dispensing arrangements and welcomed efforts by practices to provide local delivery services to maintain accessibility for patients and retain income within primary care services.
Resolved: That:
a) the report be noted, and;
b) that a written update on the situation at Reeth Medical Centre be provided to the next ordinary meeting of the Committee.
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666 |
Yorkshire Ambulance Service Update
The Committee received an update from Yorkshire Ambulance Service (YAS) on operational performance and service developments across North Yorkshire. Members were advised that ambulance response times had continued to improve, with Category 2 response times averaging 25 minutes and 10 seconds across North Yorkshire between April and May 2026. Significant improvements had also been achieved in reducing hospital handover delays, particularly following the introduction of new transfer of care arrangements, whilst progress had been made in developing alternative pathways to hospital attendance, including frailty services, Hospital at Home provision, urgent community response services and stroke video triage. Members also noted updates on NHS 111 services, patient transport services, workforce developments and investment in new ambulance station facilities in Thirsk and Scarborough.
Members welcomed the improvements in ambulance performance and queried the introduction of stroke video triage. It was explained that, whilst it was too early to provide quantitative outcome data, early qualitative feedback indicated that hospital teams were better prepared to receive patients, handovers were more effective, and patients were being directed to the most appropriate clinical setting at an earlier stage. Members also sought clarification regarding thrombolysis treatment and were advised that diagnostic imaging remained necessary in hospital before treatment decisions could be taken.
The Committee thanked YAS staff for the quality of care provided, particularly in cases where they had personal experience. Members highlighted the importance of effective call triage and communication, particularly during periods of high demand when callers may struggle to convey the seriousness of a patient's condition. Recruitment of newly qualified paramedics was also discussed, with officers reporting that North Yorkshire would benefit from additional paramedic and ambulance support worker recruitment, including allocations to the Scarborough area. Observations were also made regarding patient journeys between hospital sites and the challenges this could create for patients and families.
Discussion also focused on the revised eligibility criteria for the Non-Emergency Patient Transport Service (NEPTS) and the potential impact on patients in rural areas. Members raised concerns about access to transport for those living in isolated communities and whether the criteria adequately reflected the practical difficulties faced by patients who could not drive and had limited public transport options. In response, it was explained that the service operated in accordance with national NHS England eligibility criteria and was intended for patients whose medical condition prevented them from travelling independently. Officers acknowledged concerns regarding rurality and access, noting that work was ongoing with the Integrated Care Board and alternative transport providers to ensure patients were signposted to appropriate support, including community transport schemes and the Healthcare Travel Costs Scheme where eligible. The NHS Low Income Scheme, which supported travel costs and other associated expenses for those on low incomes, was also highlighted.
Resolved: That the report be noted.
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667 |
Healthwatch Report: Women, Alcohol, and Support in North Yorkshire
The Committee received a presentation from Healthwatch North Yorkshire on its report, which explored the relationship between alcohol use, wellbeing and support services for women aged 40 to 60 in North Yorkshire. Drawing on engagement with almost 300 women, the report found that drinking patterns in midlife were often shaped by menopause, stress, caring responsibilities, work pressures and wider life changes. Whilst many women reduced their alcohol consumption due to health concerns, a significant proportion were drinking at levels associated with increased health risks. The report highlighted low awareness of available support services, the impact of stigma in preventing people seeking help, and a preference for flexible, informal and women-focused support. Recommendations included earlier conversations about alcohol, more accessible support options, and greater emphasis on addressing underlying issues such as anxiety, poor sleep, menopause symptoms and mental wellbeing.
Members welcomed the report and highlighted the significant levels of alcohol-related risk identified, particularly the impact of regular drinking linked to work, caring responsibilities and other pressures experienced by women in midlife. Discussion focused on how the findings would be disseminated and used to support prevention work, with officers advising that the report had been shared with the ICB, councils, MPs and public health partners, and that targeted communications were being developed. It was also agreed to share the report with the Director of Public Health and seek their comments. Members also emphasised the importance of raising awareness amongst frontline staff and primary care teams to support earlier intervention and noted the possibility that alcohol consumption may be under-reported despite the anonymous nature of the survey.
Resolved: That the report be noted.
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668 |
Work Programme
The committee’s outline programme of work for 2026/27 was considered.
Resolved: That the committee approves the proposed programme of work.
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669 |
Date of Next Meeting
Friday 2 October 2026, at 10:00, in the Grand Meeting Room, County Hall, Northallerton, DL7 8AD.
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The meeting concluded at 12.05 pm.