A report has called for a new devolution framework to address health inequalities and the creation of a local government finance taskforce to ensure funding is distributed according to need.

The report by the Centre for Local Economic Strategies (CLES), The King's Fund and The Health Foundation highlights the framing of devolution deals, accountability and governance issues, and the chronic underfunding of local authorities as the main barriers to reducing health inequalities.

Tom Lloyd Goodwin, deputy chief executive of CLES, said: ‘Health inequalities are deeply rooted in the unequal distribution of resources and opportunities. Devolution gives us a powerful lever to tackle these inequalities, but only if it is reoriented to prioritise well-being and fairness. This report calls on policymakers to reshape their approach, ensuring regional economies truly serve local people.'

The report argues combined authorities should be encouraged by government to adopt policies explicitly designed to reduce poverty and improve health outcomes, while being supported by more equitable funding and clearer accountability mechanisms.

It also emphasises the need for stronger partnerships between local authorities, integrated care systems and combined authorities to create a co-ordinated approach to reducing health inequalities.