LIFE expectancy for both men and women at age 65 in Warrington is significantly lower than for the England average, with socio-economic deprivation in some areas still a significant problem.
In terms of the health of older people in the borough, many health indicators suggest their health is worse than in England overall. This means improving the health of older people and investing in long-term prevention is crucial, according to the first annual report delivered by director of public health Thara Raj.
The report also reveals one of the biggest challenges that has faced Warrington is the inequalities caused by socio-economic deprivation, with less expectancy reduced by around 10 years for males and females in some wards.
The rate of death from cardiovascular disease and respiratory disease for those aged 65 and over is showing a downward trend, although rates in Warrington remain significantly higher than for England as a whole.
The report predominantly focuses on the local impact of COVID-19, the longer-term impacts of the pandemic, and the resilience and spirit of Warrington’s residents and organisations despite the challenges of the last two years.
It includes the work of health partners, key workers, community groups and businesses – shining a light on the personal stories of people and groups who have all played their part to support the residents of Warrington throughout the pandemic.
Equally, document looks at wider challenges caused by the pandemic, including its effect on people’s mental health and emotional wellbeing, how schools and other educational settings adapted, and the impact on local businesses.
The rapid rollout of Warrington’s vaccination programme, and the successful establishment of the local community testing and contact tracing services are also described within the report.
Ms Raj -who took up her post shortly before the pandemic – said: “This year’s annual report is significant as it is my first since coming to Warrington, and it is made all the more poignant as it reflects on the huge collective spirit, resilience and togetherness of residents and organisations in the face of the pandemic, which for many has at times caused distress and difficulty.
“We have been through a lot as a town, and the report describes some of the challenges we faced, and uncovers the stories of some of the people who have played their part to make a difference.
“There are almost too many people to thank, given the lengths so many people and groups have gone to over the last couple of years, but I hope the repot does justice to the collective work and dedication of the people of Warrington.
“We also need to acknowledge the challenges, barriers and widening inequalities the pandemic has brought about. In this respect, the hard work starts now.”
A lot of people in Warrington experience good health and well-being. Many have a great start in life and are able to take advantage of the opportunities that living in an ambitious and
prosperous borough brings. However, this is not the case for all. One of the biggest challenges that has faced Warrington is the inequalities caused by socio-economic deprivation and the impact this has on the health and wellbeing of individuals and communities.
It is widely accepted that health and wellbeing is affected by a range of broader social, economic and environmental factors such as money and resources; level of education and skills; availability of good, fair work; the quality and security of housing; and general surroundings. These factors are at the root of inequalities in health and wellbeing between groups of people.
Within Warrington these inequalities are perhaps most starkly demonstrated by the gap in life expectancy between the most and the
least deprived areas of the borough. Although Life Expectancy (LE) in Warrington has increased substantially over past decades, with a rise since 1991 of 6.5 years for men and 4.4 years for women, LE for both males and females in Warrington has been consistently lower than the average for England. In addition, internal inequalities in life expectancy are stark and linked to socio-economic deprivation.
Comparing the highest and lowest life expectancy at ward level, there is a gap of 9.7 years for males, and 10 years for females. This pattern has not changed significantly in recent years.
You can read the full Public Health Annual Report 2021/22 on the borough council website CLICK HERE
