Agenda item

A report from the Director of Public Health is attached. This presents the Annual Public Health report. (Non key)

(Report No.121)

(8.35 – 8.40 pm)

Councillor Christine Hamilton (Cabinet Member for Community Wellbeing and Public Health) introduced the report of the Director of Public Health (No.121) presenting the Annual Public Health report.

NOTED

1.         that this was the last year that a joint Annual Public Health report would be produced by the Local Authority and NHS as the responsibility for public health was moving into the Local Authority with effect from April 2013. A key purpose of the 2012 Annual Public Health Report was to support the Council in its preparation for Public Health Transition; the Executive Summary of the Cabinet report set out the main elements of the published report;

2.         Dr Shahed Ahmad, Director of Public Health, was invited to outline his report and highlight any issues for Members’ particular attention, as set out below:

·        Chapter 1 of the report described the determinants of health and wellbeing. Figure 1.1 of the report was highlighted – this set out the determinants of health model.

·        Chapter 2 described the new Public Health System.

·        Chapter 3 set out what was known about health outcomes in Enfield. In particular the high level of health inequalities faced by Enfield’s residents was noted.

·        Chapter 4 described some of the work undertaken by the Council’s partners to improve Enfield’s health and wellbeing.

Comments and feedback from Members was invited.

3.         a discussion took place with regard to the childhood obesity figures set out in the report for both reception year and year 6 pupils. There was no correlation in the figures at present. There was a strong correlation between childhood obesity and child poverty. It was noted that the statistics were not always consistent as parents could choose whether or not to have their child weighed. Members noted the work which was already taking place in schools and the need to consider effective community initiatives to address the wider health issues. In response to a concern raised, it was acknowledged that this was an issue which required sensitivity and that it was important not to “label” children and stigmatise any individuals;

4.         Members highlighted the value of campaigning on the negative health effects of high sugar and salt intakes. Dr Ahmad outlined the discussions which were taking place and recognised the further work that was required in this area;

5.         the importance of physical activity was noted and the need to encourage greater participation in the Borough in activities such as walking. Many people were not confident enough to participate in a number of physical activities;

6.         Councillor Orhan highlighted the initiatives which were taking place in schools including walking buses; healthy menus for school meals; sensitively managing obesity; increasing sports activities through the Olympic legacy. There was a need to engage with parents on healthy eating in relation to packed lunches provided for their children. Every child was important and a co-ordinated effort was needed with the Council’s stakeholders and partners;

7.         that a number of the initiatives were long-term. Councillor Taylor asked which elements were likely to improve or worsen over the next 12 months, recognising the challenging economic period and welfare reforms taking place. Dr Ahmad expected childhood obesity figures to improve and markers for long-term improvements in life expectancy through increased monitoring of blood pressure and cholesterol levels. A greater understanding of health and wellbeing would be promoted. It was noted that Cabinet reports now included a section on public health implications; it was intended to strengthen these as much as possible. GPs would be encouraged to refer more people to support services such as “stop smoking”;

8.         the work that was being co-ordinated by the Health and Wellbeing Board and the Primary Care Strategy which should have a positive impact;

9.         Andrew Fraser (Director of Schools and Children’s Services) highlighted the need to focus on improving the infant mortality rates in the Borough.

Alternative Options Considered: Not applicable.

DECISION: The Cabinet agreed to note the Annual Public Health Report and to ensure that future strategic decisions were mindful of the wider determinants of health and informed by the findings of the report.

RECOMMENDED TO COUNCIL that the report be noted (for information only).

Reasons for recommendations: It would be considered good practice for councils to receive the Annual Public Health Report and be mindful of the findings.

(Non key)