Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (JSNA) is built on strong partnership working, already present in Somerset, and is underpinned by the Somerset Health and Social Needs Analysis data, which has been regularly updated since 1998 (latest publication HSNAG 2007). The scope of our JSNA provides a firm foundation for commissioning to improve health and social care services and reduce health inequalities. It enables stronger partnerships between communities, local government and the NHS.