Member Article

Wirral digging deep to boost residents' health

Wirral Council is developing a raft of schemes aimed at improving health and well-being - including spending £160,000 on improving allotments.

The authority’s ruling Cabinet will next week consider 38 proposals which cover a whole range of services from supporting children in care and people with long-term conditions to encouraging healthy eating and promoting active lifestyles.

The projects have been developed by teams across the local authority, and selected based on their potential to improve life expectancy and reduce inequalities within the borough.

If agreed by Cabinet, the proposals will deliver Public Health initiatives, which will play a significant role in improving the health and wellbeing of Wirral people, enhancing the natural environment and protecting vulnerable children and adults. Many projects will involve partnership working with community and voluntary groups.

Fiona Johnstone, Director of Public Health and Head of Policy and Performance said: “Support for these important projects demonstrates the holistic approach that Wirral Council is taking to its Public Health responsibilities. We are widening our gaze to include a wider range of schemes which contribute towards making Wirral people happier, healthier and safer.

Cllr Chris Meaden, Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing said: “I am delighted that we have received so many worthwhile applications for funding right across the spectrum of services; these projects have the potential to benefit all Wirral residents, whatever their age, background or situation.”

Proposals include investing around £168,000 to improve Wirral’s Allotments in 2014/15 and £96,000 into extending the Council’s G.I.R.L.S. Project, which aims to provide support and guidance for vulnerable and at risk young women. Another proposal would see £245,000 invested in building two new 3G football pitches at Guinea Gap Baths and Recreation Centre.

Public Health Outcomes funding is part of the Public Health budget for Wirral, which is a ring-fenced grant from the Department of Health.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Simon Malia .