Webinar: Introducing the ICS Clean Air Framework Online Tool
Global Action Plan brought together ICSs, the NHS and local authorities in a webinar to explore how the new ICS Clean Air Framework Online Tool can be used to improve air quality, support better health outcomes, and tackle health inequalities regionally.
We began the webinar by exploring the opportunities for the NHS, local authorities and other partners to collaborate and coordinate in an Integrated Care System (ICS) to improve health and reduce healthcare inequalities by taking action on clean air.
We were then joined by two expert speakers: Dr Suzanne Bartington of the University of Birmingham, and Dr Karen Exley representing UKHSA.
Dr Suzanne Bartington presented an example of a case study where an acute Trust (Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham) led local air quality action. She then went on to explain how air quality monitoring and evaluation was conducted at the Trust and how different actions had resulted in improvements in air quality. She concluded by sharing the lessons that had been learned, including how collaboration is essential.
Dr Karen Exley presented the UKHSA’s programme of work. She first highlighted Defra’s work on the Air Quality Systems Review to understand how information about air pollution is shared with people. She then spoke about the London Air Quality and Health Programme Office, focusing on how to raise awareness with healthcare professionals about episodes of air pollution, including through alerts and educational workshops.
We then looked at what the ICS Clean Air Framework is, and led a demonstration of how ICSs can begin to use the new online tool. We were joined by Rebecca Waters from North East London ICB, who shared their experience of using the framework.
Rebecca Waters first highlighted how air pollution can be linked and integrated with the Green Plans that all ICSs are required to produce. She then explained how North East London Air Quality Action Group was set up and how they have been using the ICS Clean Air Framework online tool to measure their progress of actions they are taking in the region. She also highlighted some examples of clean air action in North East London, including providing training to healthcare professionals, the development of Air Aware, and training local Air Quality Champions.
Interested in taking clean air actions to improve air quality in your ICS? Get involved by registering to the ICS Clean Air Framework new online tool.