South East council leaders have warned health secretary Jeremy Hunt that ‘opportunities are being missed' by excluding them from efforts to integrate health and care.

Local government leaders from South East England Councils (SEEC) urged the Government to recognise local authorities as equal partners with the NHS.

Their eight-point plan designed to overcome common barriers includes co-chairing of the groups working on sustainability and transformation plans (STP), an agreed definition of integration and measurable goals for all partners.

‘It's clear the current approach to health and social care is unaffordable in the long-term,' said Cllr Roy Perry, SEEC deputy chairman.

‘STPs could offer a way forward, but are mainly NHS-led and remain largely focused on cure.

‘We feel opportunities are being missed to create partnerships that also draw on councils' skills in delivering efficient, locally-tailored services that meet people's needs and focus on prevention.'