In response to recognition of widening inequalities in health in Northumberland, the University College London (UCL) Institute of Health Equity (IHE) were commissioned by Northumberland County Council to contribute to the development of ambitions and action to tackle these inequalities in Northumberland.

As a result of data analyses and discussions with partners across Northumberland, three priority areas were agreed, covering housing, the early years, and employment and good quality work.

This report outlines work that IHE have conducted with the Northumberland County Partnership to reduce inequalities in health through improvements to housing. Specifically the report sets out recommendations to improve the supply of: affordable housing; decent, safe and sustainable homes; and homes for vulnerable and older adults.  Throughout this work we have had regard to the particular needs of rural and coastal communities. The report also sets out the scale of work needed in each of these areas to result in a reduction in inequalities in healthy life expectancy.