A nine week consultation launched today inviting residents, organisations and communities to have their say on health and wellbeing priorities in the County.

The results from the consultation, which ends on 17 August,  will inform a joint 'Improving Lives' strategy which sets out how all members of the Somerset Health and Wellbeing Board will work together over the next ten years to improve the lives of residents.

The Health and Wellbeing Board includes representatives from Somerset County Council, Somerset Clinical Commissioning Group, our District Councils, NHS England and Healthwatch who provide the customer voice.

The Board have identified four priorities where they think partnership working could make the biggest difference to the people of Somerset.

A county infrastructure that drives productivity, supports economic prosperity and sustainable public services

Safe, vibrant and well-balanced communities able to enjoy and benefit from the natural environment

Fairer life chances and opportunity for all

Improved health and wellbeing and more people living healthy and independent lives for longer

 

These priorities have been developed taking into account the many different factors that influence the lives of our residents and communities for example; health and care services, housing, education and community safety.  The priorities also consider the current health and care needs of people in Somerset.

Councillor Christine Lawrence, Chair of the Somerset Health and Wellbeing Board at Somerset County Council, is keen to involve everyone in the consultation and hear their feedback on the four identified priorities.

Cllr Lawrence said: "It is essential that these priorities are the right ones, which is why we want to consult with as wide a range of stakeholders as possible before the final version is agreed.

"We believe it is about working in partnership to improve lives by informing, enabling, supporting our residents and communities to look after their own health and wellbeing and future prospects.

"This strategy explains how, over the next ten years, we will do just that.  Please take part in our consultation, read through the supporting explanations, see what a difference you can make, and help us work together to help all our residents and communities. "

The new Somerset Health and Wellbeing Board 'Improving Lives' strategy will be published at the end of the year.

To take part in the consultation visit www.somerset.gov.uk/improvinglives