Welcoming the New Thames Valley Integrated Care Board (TV ICB)

From April 2026, the way NHS services are organised across our region will change as a new Thames Valley Integrated Care Board (ICB) is created.

This will bring together the Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire West (BOB ICB) and Frimley ICB areas into one larger body covering much of the Thames Valley.

What’s Changing?

The new Thames Valley ICB will replace BOB and Frimley ICBs, and East Berkshire (currently under Frimley) will join the Thames Valley area. Surrey Heath, Ash and Farnham will move to the Surrey and Sussex ICB, while North East Hampshire will align with the Hampshire and Isle of Wight ICB.

Why It’s Happening

These changes are part of a national NHS plan to streamline services, reduce duplication, and make sure decisions are made at the right scale to improve patient care and make better use of resources.

Preparing for the Change

While the new ICB won’t formally launch until 2026, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire West and Frimley ICBs have already started working together in a cluster arrangement. Both ICBs remain legally separate but now share leadership and planning functions, and Dr Nick Broughton has been appointed as Chief Executive for the cluster, helping guide the transition to a single organisation.

What This Means for Patients and Communities

For most people, NHS services, like your GP, hospital, or community care, will continue as normal. However, over time, the merger aims to:

• Deliver more consistent access to care across the Thames Valley.

• Reduce variation in services and outcomes.

• Strengthen collaboration between health and care partners.

The NHS says it is committed to involving staff, patients, and local partners in shaping how the new organisation will work. Staff engagement is already underway, and more updates will follow as plans progress.

Have Your Say

As these changes move forward, it’s important your voice is heard. Healthwatch West Berkshire will continue to share updates and make sure patient views are at the centre of any decisions about local care.