Damp and mould: improving the health and homes of children with asthma through NHS and local authority collaboration.

Abstract

The death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak in 2020 because of prolonged exposure to mould in his family's social housing flat in Rochdale, England, resulted in Awaab's Law, which mandates timely housing repairs by social housing providers from October 2025. This article explores a collaborative initiative between Frimley Health and Care Integrated Care System and Slough Borough Council to improve the respiratory health of children and young people by addressing the effect of suboptimal housing conditions, particularly damp and mould. Geospatial data and shared records helped to identify high-risk households, ensuring efficient, equitable outreach. The project integrated healthcare and housing services through community-based clinics, roadshows and family hubs, providing targeted asthma interventions, personalised education and environmental remediation. The initiative resulted in improved asthma control for many children and young people, and it highlighted the crucial role of children's nurses in delivering interdisciplinary care, advocating for systemic change and supporting vulnerable families. This model presents a promising approach to reducing health inequalities through integrated, community-led healthcare and housing support.