This short paper considers the development of an evidence-based approach to tackling health inequalities. Inequalities in health in England at the beginning of the 21st century have widened and are stark. Despite overall improvements in death rates, the growing gap between social groups means that now some parts of England have the same levels of mortality as the national average for the 1950s. Tackling health inequalities is now part of the Government's agenda . Furthermore policy learning and application of "what works" are seen as central to its modernisation aims. This paper takes stock of current public health research and development efforts. It highlights examples of progress as well as challenges to an evidence-based approach to tackling health inequalities. In particular the work being undertaken by the Health Development Agency (HDA) is highlighted. (Contains 1 table.)