Public health expert Professor Sir Michael Marmot helps launch landmark fairer health initiative in North East Lincolnshire

1:46 pm, Tuesday, 6th October 2026 - 42 seconds ago

General

North East Lincolnshire has officially become a Marmot Place, joining a growing national movement committed to tackling the root causes of poor health and creating the conditions for everyone to live longer, healthier and more fulfilling lives.

The Marmot approach recognises that health is shaped by more than healthcare alone. Factors such as housing, education, employment, income, transport, the environment and strong communities all play a significant role in determining how healthy people are and how long they live.

The milestone was marked today at Blundell Park, bringing together partners from across the NHS, local government, education, business, the voluntary and community sector and local communities.

Diane Lee, Director of Public Health for Northern Lincolnshire, said:

“Becoming a Marmot Place is an important moment for North East Lincolnshire. It recognises what many of us already know, that good health is about much more than healthcare services. It is about having a safe home, good work, strong relationships, opportunities to learn and grow, and communities where people feel they belong.”

Guests at today’s event heard from internationally renowned public health expert Professor Sir Michael Marmot, whose research transformed understanding of health inequalities and inspired the Marmot Place movement. Also showcased were examples of local organisations and communities already taking action to improve health and wellbeing.

“The Marmot launch event provided a wonderful opportunity for us to share ideas for a practical framework to tackle the inequalities that still exist across our communities,” explained Councillor Nige Oliver, portfolio holder for health, wellbeing and adult social care.

“I am proud that North East Lincolnshire is joining this national movement, and it was exciting to welcome partners, businesses, community organisations and residents to discuss the foundation for a fairer future for everyone.”

Sharon Wroot, Chief Executive of North East Lincolnshire Council, commented:

“The Marmot approach aligns closely with our ambitions for North East Lincolnshire. We want our communities to thrive, our economy to grow and our residents to have the opportunities they need to succeed.

Professor Sir Michael Marmot, Director, UCL Institute of Health Equity, said:

“The IHE is delighted to be working with North East Lincolnshire as a Marmot Place to address local health inequalities. The institute is now working with around 70 places across the UK that are determined to improve the lives of local residents.

“We know the circumstances in which we are born, grow, live, work and age are key to our health and longevity. Working in partnership with local organisations and communities is key to reducing health inequalities.”

Wayne Bloy, CEO of Fusion Health and Wellbeing, said: “People are really excited and want to get involved – you’ve only got to look at how many people are here today!.

“Everyone wants to be a part of it because they can see some tangible evidence that something’s going to happen.”

Craig Doyley, of West Marsh Forward, commented: “Across the West Marsh we’ve been busy building trust because if there is no trust with residents, there’s still no access.

“The statistics we’ve seen today were eye-opening but by working together as a Marmot Place, hopefully we will start to see things improve.”

The launch event marked the beginning of a long-term programme of work focused on improving the building blocks of health across North East Lincolnshire, including good work, housing, education, transport, food, community belonging and the local environment. Feedback and commitments gathered through the event will help shape the next phase of delivery, which we look forward to sharing with the wider community.