Health inequalities and deprivation: a policy lens on community nursing

With the government's 10-year health plan for England high on the agenda, there has never been a more poignant time for community services to drive forward their position in tackling the health inequalities in their local populations. Through the lens of recent policy and guidance, the author focuses on the potential role that community nurses will have in designing and delivering services as care is moved from hospital to local neighbourhood health centres. The unique perspective that community nurses bring, combining experience, knowledge and an insight into areas of deprivation, is widely recognised. Principles of inclusion health are considered in this article with a focus on supporting those experiencing homelessness. The author also explores barriers to implementation in the current healthcare landscape as new opportunities for development appear on the horizon.