England’s Chief Medical Officer, Professor Sir Chris Whitty, visited Somerset on Friday (27th March) to learn more about the county’s community‑led work to improve health and wellbeing in small towns and rural areas.
He was welcomed by Cllr Graham Oakes, Somerset Council’s Lead Member for Public Health, and Alison Bell, Somerset’s Director of Public Health, as part of his national review into the health of people living in rural communities.
The visit brought together representatives from public health, the NHS, Somerset Council and local partners, offering an opportunity to showcase how organisations across the county are working collectively to improve health outcomes and reduce inequalities.
Alison Bell said: “This visit was an important opportunity to show how a whole‑system approach is making a real difference to people’s lives in Somerset. By working closely with our partners and communities, we are tackling the wider factors that influence health — from early years support and access to healthy food, to housing and community wellbeing.”
During the day in Glastonbury, Professor Whitty saw a range of projects supporting local families, including early years and public health nursing services. He also visited community food initiatives such as food networks, pantries and growing schemes aimed at improving access to affordable, nutritious food.
A stop at a local library highlighted its role as a vital community hub, offering warm spaces, wellbeing support, NHS Health Checks and a variety of groups for residents of all ages.
The visit also focused on research and innovation, with the Health Determinants Research Collaboration (HDRC) helping Somerset build a stronger evidence base to shape future services.
Later, Professor Whitty met with housing teams, outreach workers, inclusion health services and the Somerset Drug and Alcohol Service to discuss the challenges of rural living — including housing pressures, access to accommodation and the impact on homelessness and health outcomes. He also spoke with individuals with lived experience.
Reflecting on the visit, Professor Whitty said he was “impressed by the range of work taking place across Somerset” and noted the importance of improving health provision in rural areas.
Cllr Graham Oakes added: “We were delighted to welcome Professor Whitty to Somerset and to showcase the breadth of work taking place across our communities. This visit reflects the strength of our partnerships and our shared commitment to improving health and wellbeing for everyone.”
The visit forms part of Professor Whitty’s research for his upcoming Annual Report, which will focus on the health of people living in small towns and rural communities.
