National report to spotlight Durham's achievements

A local authority is set to feature in a national health report examining challenges facing small towns and rural communities.

County Durham has been selected as a case study in Professor Chris Whitty’s upcoming report on health in small towns and rural areas.

The chief medical officer visited the region to meet residents and representatives from Durham County Council, Durham University, the NHS and the voluntary, community and social enterprise sector.

The visit allowed the council to highlight its approach to tackling health inequalities across a diverse area made up of market towns, new towns, rural villages and Durham city.

Discussions focused on how local data and insight are used to identify inequalities, shape strategy and support targeted action in communities with differing needs.

Professor Whitty visited Bishop Auckland, where mental health and wellbeing were highlighted as local priorities, particularly given the challenges rural communities can face around transport, isolation and access to services.

Reducing alcohol-related harm across the North East was also discussed.

In Horden, partners showcased place-based work including the Making Every Adult Matter and Horden Together partnerships.

Professor Whitty said: “I was delighted to visit the public health team in County Durham.

“I was very impressed by the approach the public health team take to adapt what it does to the diverse parts of County Durham, and its strong working relationships with local communities.

“I am pleased that my annual report will be able to put a spotlight on some of the excellent work happening in the region to support the health of the citizens of County Durham.”

Councillor Howard Brown, Durham County Council cabinet member for adult and health services, added: “There’s no doubt that County Durham faces challenges when it comes to health inequalities due to the diversity of our rural communities, small towns and villages, and Durham City.

“People in these areas have a wide range of ages, health obstacles and access to services.

“We were pleased to welcome Professor Whitty to the area, where we were able to highlight the hard work we are doing to bridge these gaps and speak to him about how national policy can help us address health inequalities.”

Professor Whitty’s report is expected to be published later this year.

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