Health inequality reports
Routine data helps us with our understanding of health inequalities. Below are reports that detail the health inequalities in Dorset and BCP, and the 2025 Cardiac health needs assessment and toolkit.

Cardiac Health Needs Assessment for Dorset

This Cardiac Health Needs Assessment (HNA) for Dorset identifies significant inequities in cardiovascular disease (CVD) outcomes and access to prevention and treatment services.

Cardiac Health Needs Assessment Toolkit

This toolkit follows from the cardiac Health Needs Assessment (HNA) published by Public Health Dorset and NHS Dorset in January 2025.

Overview of Health Inequalities in Dorset

This report discusses health inequalities in Dorset, focusing on disparities among different social groups, and calls for strategic action to address these issues.

Overview of Health Inequalities in BCP

This report discusses health inequalities in BCP, focusing on disparities among different social groups, and calls for strategic action to address these issues.

Health Equity Assessment Tool (HEAT) resources
Here you can access the health equity assessment tool, further information, e-learning and case studies, plus we’ve created a set of resources for you to adapt and use to complement the HEAT template and support you to deliver workshops to bring people together to complete it with you.

Health Equity Assessment Tool (HEAT)

HEAT is a practical framework that enables multiple audiences to systematically identify and embed action on health inequity and equity in their work programme or service.

HEAT: What it is and when to use it

This accompanying guidance, ‘HEAT: what it is and how to use it’, provides additional information on the purpose and structure of the tool, and what to consider when using it.

Health Equity Assessment Tool Programme

This e-learning supports the use of HEAT, providing the context and purpose, outlining the benefits of using the tool, and taking the learner step-by-step through each stage of the tool.

Health Equity Assessment Tool: Additional Resources

These additional resources from GOV.uk and NHS England may be useful when completing HEAT.

HEAT Workshop Facilitation Guide

This guide outlines steps for planning, conducting, and following up on workshops aimed at addressing health equity.

HEAT Workshop Draft Agenda

This document outlines the agenda for a HEAT Workshop, focusing on discussing and addressing inequalities related to a specific topic through breakout sessions, feedback, and action planning.

HEAT Workshop Template Slides

This template Powerpoint document outlines the structure and objectives of a workshop focused on improving health equity, particularly through the use of HEAT.

The Virtual Academy

The Virtual Academy has various resources such as written materials, videos, and podcasts to help understand and tackle health inequalities. Key sections include:

  • Health literacy

  • Digital inclusion

  • Fair employment

  • Sustainable communities