North Central London and North West London ICB agree to merge
The Boards of North West and North Central London Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) have both approved moving to a full integrated merger.
The decision comes after the government announcement of 50% cuts in operating costs for all Integrated Care Boards (ICB).
The merger will create one of England’s largest ICBs, responsible for commissioning health services for approximately 4.5 million residents living in 13 London boroughs.
The ICBs released a statement on 24 July 2025 setting out their reasoning for merger.
The boroughs covered by the new merged ICB will be:
-
Barnet
-
Brent
-
Camden
-
Ealing
-
Enfield
-
Hammersmith and Fulham
-
Haringey
-
Harrow
-
Hillingdon
-
Hounslow
-
Islington
-
Kensington and Chelsea
-
Westminster
How will the proposed merger affect patient voice?
The government is proposing to close Healthwatch England and local Healthwatch. The current functions of Healthwatch to patients in England - understanding the experiences and concerns of people who use health services - will be delivered by the ICBs instead.
Despite this news, Healthwatch Brent is committed to uplifting and strengthening patient voice. We listen to patients and reflect their experiences back to decision-makers, whether that is advocating for carers or suggesting recommendations to adult social services.
“In North West London we are determined to improve quality and outcomes for all residents. Moving forward with a full merger means that we will be able to become the best possible strategic commissioner to deliver results for our population by enabling us to build an organisation that retains, attracts and develops the skills and talent necessary to deliver – both now and in the future."
