Conclusion

This concluding chapter explains that in order to develop interrelationships and interdependencies across the various domains within a social determinants of health rainbow model, there needs to be a good understanding and respect for each of these contributions to the health and wellbeing of people and their communities. In the ten-year period of austerity preceding the COVID-19 crisis, many local authorities have radically reduced their social and health services for children and families and young people, concentrating solely on those with the most acute need, those whom they have a legal obligation to support. Indeed, local government has 'retreated from its historical position as the front-line of defence against social evils'. There remain major concerns about local authorities' ability to support their communities in the post-COVID-19 period. Ultimately, although there are large numbers of reports and reviews aimed at local commissioning policies and practices, there is very little evidence to support the interrelated and interdependent approaches utilising a social determinants of health model that specifically addresses 'wicked issues'.