COVID-19 will widen health gap between the most and least deprived

The latest data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows that London has been the hardest hit region in the country by the COVID-19 pandemic. The 11 local authorities with the highest mortality rates are all London boroughs, with Newham, Brent and Hackney suffering the highest rates of COVID-19 related deaths.^[2]



The London Assembly Health Committee has closely examined progress with the Mayor’s statutory Health Inequalities Strategy and has written to him outlining how dealing with London’s health inequalities is more important than ever in light of COVID-19.



COVID-19 will further compound existing health inequalities and the socioeconomic factors that drive inequality. The Committee has urged the Mayor of London to fast-track work on addressing this complex and cross-cutting issue, as the disparity will only be further exacerbated by the pandemic.



The Committee has asked the Mayor and his health advisors to monitor developments closely and to consider necessary action to address the most challenging determinants of health inequalities, such as employment, housing, and early childhood experiences.



Dr Onkar Sahota AM, Chair of the Health Committee said:

"London is already blighted by a number of major health inequalities, especially when it comes to marginalised and vulnerable groups.

"In light of COVID-19, the need to address the root causes of unfair health differences, such as poverty, inadequate housing and poor work, is more pressing than ever. The Mayor can’t solve all this on his own, but he can lead the way and encourage others to step up.

“COVID-19 will further exacerbate existing physical and mental health inequalities. Before the pandemic struck we already knew that if you are poor, you are more likely to have a health issue and die earlier. This virus compounds this and we will continue to see disproportionate harm for poorer Londoners, those from a BAME background and those with underlying health conditions.

“We want to see the Mayor of London work with London's health leaders, so any changes to our care system have equality at their heart.

“COVID-19 has the potential to undo some of the good work that has already taken place to address the capital’s health inequalities. The Mayor must keep his foot on the pedal now, and London's public health system must have the investment it needs to keep us safe.”