Director of Public Health and Communities Annual Report shines a light on local communities

The themes in the report highlight the importance and value of connection, belonging, participation and feeling heard.

The report is presented in a video format in which residents from various communities across the county shared their experiences about what community means to them, what they value about where they live, and what they feel could be improved. The report includes at least one case study from each of the districts and boroughs across the county. It also aimed to reflect a diverse range of communities and voices in Nottinghamshire. These insights have shaped the content of the report and the recommendations.

Vivienne Robbins, Director of Public Health and Communities at Nottinghamshire County Council said: “Nottinghamshire is a diverse county, with people living in a wide range of urban, rural, and changing communities, each with its own strengths and challenges

“The communities in which we are born, live, work and socialise significantly shape our health. The communities we are part of have an impact on aspects of daily life like access to good employment, healthy homes, education, transport, and safe green spaces - all of which are fundamental building blocks of good health.

“Our communities are themselves shaped by many factors including the landscape of the area, local industry, the culture and heritage and the people who live in them. For example, communities often evolve and change as their populations change, and developments take place in or around them. We wanted to understand what worked well in our communities, what people thought about where they live and work, and what they thought could be improved for the future.

“We have heard from various people across the county and had the privilege to understand how their experiences have shaped their views of where they live, work and connect socially.

“We would like to thank everyone who contributed their time, honesty, and experiences to help make this insightful report possible and we now want to look at ways to work alongside our partners and communities to build on what they have told us.”

The recommendations, which draw also on reflections from health and wellbeing partners, aim to build on good practice and support partners to create the conditions for communities to thrive.

For more information on the Director of Public Health and Communities Annual Report 2025-2026, and to watch the video and read the supporting documents, go to: https://www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/dph-annual-report