JSNAs identify and analyse the current and future health and social care needs of the local community. They play an important role in shaping the planning and commissioning of local services, ensuring they are responsive to the needs of residents.
JSNAs are rooted in national legislation and policy frameworks that guide health and social care planning:
- Local Government and Public Involvement in Health Act 2007 – First introduced the requirement for local authorities and Primary Care Trusts (now replaced by Integrated Care Boards) to produce JSNAs.
- Health and Social Care Act 2012 – Strengthened the role of JSNAs by making them the responsibility of Health and Wellbeing Boards, requiring them to inform local commissioning plans and the Joint Health and Wellbeing Strategy (JHWS).
- Care Act 2014 – Reinforced the importance of prevention and integration in health and social care, making JSNAs key to understanding the needs of vulnerable populations, including older people, those with disabilities, and carers.
- The NHS Long Term Plan (2019) – Emphasised population health management and tackling health inequalities, aligning closely with the JSNA’s role in shaping local health interventions.
Why is the JSNA Important?
- Identifies Health Priorities – Highlights key challenges, inequalities, and emerging health concerns.
- Supports Evidence-Based Decision Making – Ensures local services are planned and commissioned based on real data and community insights.
- Promotes Integration Across Sectors – Strengthens collaboration between health, social care, voluntary organisations, and other partners.
- Improves Population Health and Wellbeing – Informs policies that promote healthier communities, prevent illness, and enhance service access.
The JSNA is a continuous process, regularly updated with the latest data, research, and public engagement to ensure that local services remain responsive to changing needs.
