HELPING people in Warrington to have happy, healthy lives – that’s one of the aims of a new health and wellbeing strategy launched at the new Innovation Hub in Bath Street.
Based on the success of the previous strategy there are some great benefits on the way for the people of Warrington.
The strategy sets out Warrington Partnership and Health and Wellbeing Board’s, ambitions to improve the health and wellbeing of the town’s residents.
Board members include representatives from key council services, NHS organisations in the area and a number of other private and voluntary sector services.
The strategy looks at how all organisations working across the health and social care system can work better together, how services are commissioned and the changes that need to take place so that residents are supported with the right care, by the right person at the right time.
By introducing changes and improved ways of working the aim is that residents will see and benefit from a number of improvements.
These include improved healthy life expectancy, a reduction in inequalities, fewer people experiencing social deprivation, an increase in preventative services which support people to tackle issues before they become problems, more ownership and involvement from citizens in the design, delivery and evaluation of services.
A recent annual review of the board also highlights more than 20 achievements during the past year including:
*Establishing the concept of the “Warrington Pound” – making the most of most of the Warrington £ by using resources in Warrington to the best effect by encouraging joint working between organisations.
*Leading on Warrington’s bid and subsequent election as the only town (non-city) member of the World Health Organisation (WHO) European Healthy Cities Programme.
*Supporting 24 people taking part on the national pilot for personal health budgets.
Professor Steven Broomhead, chairman of the health and wellbeing board, said: “Being well, both physically and mentally, is such a fundamental part of maintaining a happy, fulfilling life in which we can contribute positively to family, friends and community.
“This is central to our overall vision and we have identified many ways in which we can improve local areas, support people with health issues, provide training and employment opportunities and reduce inequalities so that everyone has the chance to live well and reach their full potential.
“The previous strategy resulted in some great success and we are set to achieve even more second time round. I would encourage residents to find out more as there may be services and support available that will have a positive impact on your life. The strategy also acts as the blueprint for health and wellbeing organisations to formulate their delivery plans for the next three years using the agreed priorities.”
Visit the Warrington Together website www.warringtontogether.co.uk to view the strategy.
