Health and wellbeing
Report to set out priorities for Public Health in 2024/25
Published on
A report outlining the overview of the work of Public Health and the priorities for Walsall in 2024/25 is set to be presented at a meeting of the Social Care and Health Scrutiny and Overview Committee on 12 September 2024.
The report, which will be presented by Councillor Gary Flint, Portfolio Holder for Health and Wellbeing, highlights recent activity of the council’s Public Health team over the last year. The launch of several strategies including the Alcohol and Drug Strategy (July 2023) has seen significant increases in people coming forward for support, particularly since the launch of a new alcohol and drugs communications campaign earlier this summer.
The Tobacco Control Plan for 2023-27 is another highlight of Public Health’s work which is now being implemented, including school-based performances on the dangers of tobacco delivered to approximately 3,300 school children in years 8 and 9.
Significant efforts have been made in increasing immunisation uptake linked with recent measles and whooping cough (pertussis) outbreaks, which have now been controlled in the borough. The percentage of children who have received two doses of the MMR vaccine by age five has risen to 85% in the first quarter of 2023/24. This represents a 4% increase in vaccination rates.
Public Health is also starting work through Walsall Together to prevent falls and showcase the benefits of physical activity, working alongside adult social care and customer service teams on the wellbeing support offer.
Public Health’s priorities for 24/25 will develop existing programmes of work, focusing on the ongoing development of Public Health Walsall as a training location for foundation doctors and specialist registrars, as well as refreshing existing strategies such as the Multi Agency Suicide Prevention Strategy.
The priorities will also build on several pledges which focus on older people and prevention; helping them to be in their communities and homes longer, improving health and wellbeing services for children and young people and building on the success of the Walsall Together Alliance to achieve better outcomes.
“ I am proud to present our 2024/25 Public Health priorities, which reflect our unwavering commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of our Walsall residents. By focusing on key areas such as early intervention, mental wellbeing and the prevention of major health issues, we aim to create a healthier, more resilient Walsall.
“Our collaborative efforts with partners across the borough will ensure that every child has the best start in life and that we continue to support our residents in leading healthier lives. Together, we are building a brighter, healthier future for all. “
To read the full report and presentation, visit the Council’s Committee Management and Information System (CMIS) website.
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