County Durham to play key role in national health study
The UK's Chief Medical officer, professor Chris Witty, is using the county as a case study in his national report into health in small towns and rural areas
One of the UK's top medics is using County Durham as a key part of his new national study, into the health of people in small towns and rural areas.
It comes after the government’s chief medical adviser, and head of the public health profession, visited the region to meet with residents, and representatives from Durham County Council, Durham University, the NHS, and the Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise sector.
The visit provided an important opportunity for the council to showcase how it effectively tackles the health challenges that come with such a diverse county, and the strong partnership working and tailored approach it applies, to help rural communities.
The county was selected as it encompasses a rich mix of traditional market towns, 20th century new towns, rural villages, and a historic cathedral city, creating a diverse population with differing health needs and priorities.
During the visit, the local authority highlighted how local data and insight are used to assess inequalities and inform strategy and action. Meanwhile, it provided an opportunity to stress how national policy and guidance can enable, or constrain, local delivery.
Professor Whitty visited Bishop Auckland, where he was hosted by the Auckland Project, where there was a particular focus on work to improve mental health and wellbeing, an identified priority within the Joint Local Health and Wellbeing Strategy. People living in rural areas can face challenges due to limited access to services, transport and isolation.
Reducing alcohol-related harm in the North East was another area of focus, and constructive discussions were held on how to tackle this more effectively.
Finally, during a visit to Horden, the village was highlighted as a good example of a place-based approach. The Making Every Adult Matter, and Horden Together partnership, were highlighted for the positive work they are doing, along with a constructive evaluation by Edinburgh University.
Cllr Howard Brown, Durham County Council Cabinet member for adult and health services, said: “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 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.”
Professor Whitty’s report will be released later this year.