Oct 26 Combined JW - Flipbook - Page 32
Hayling Herald
Smoking rates fall and future looks healthier
From Hampshire County Council
SMOKING rates have fallen across Hampshire,
more than 40,000 NHS health checks have been
completed, and residents have been supported to improve their health through physical
activity, family support and recovery services,
according to new public health data from
Hampshire County Council.
The figures come as Hampshire County Council launches its new Public Health Strategy for
2026 to 2030, setting out a vision to give every
resident the opportunity to live a longer, healthier and more independent life. The strategy focuses on giving children the best start in life, supporting healthy ageing, creating healthier places
and communities, preventing ill health before it
starts, promoting mental wellbeing, and reducing
gaps in health between different communities.
The latest progress report, presented to the
County Council’s Cabinet, shows strong foundations are already in place to support delivery of
these ambitions.
Highlights include:
n Smoking rates continue to fall, dropping from
32
9.4% to 8.6% and remaining below the national
average.
n More than 40,700 NHS health checks delivered, helping residents identify risks such as
heart disease and stroke earlier.
n Over 16,700 young people helping shape local
wellbeing services through the #BeeWell survey.
n More than 5,000 people supported through
drug and alcohol treatment and recovery services, helping residents improve both physical
and mental wellbeing.
‘These achievements show the real difference
that prevention can make to people’s lives,’ said
Councillor Joanne Burton, Cabinet Member
for Health and Wellbeing at Hampshire County
Council.
‘From falling smoking rates and record numbers of NHS Health Checks, to support for
children and families, mental wellbeing, recovery
services and healthier communities, we’re helping residents stay well and maintain their independence.
‘Good health is influenced by far more than
healthcare alone. The places we live, work and
spend time in, our connections with others, our
opportunities to be active, and the support available when we need it all play an important role.
‘Our new Public Health Strategy builds on this
progress and sets out a clear ambition for the
next four years. We want Hampshire to be a place
where everyone has the best possible start in life,
can stay healthy and independent for longer, and
has the opportunity to enjoy good health regardless of where they live or their circumstances.’
The progress highlights the range of Hampshire’s prevention work, including the expansion
of Best Start Family Hubs and initiatives such as
Live Longer Better Hampshire, which helps older
residents remain active, healthy and connected.
Work has also continued to create healthier places and communities, with public health
specialists working alongside planners, transport
teams and local partners to help shape places that
support good health.
This includes improving access to green spaces, making it easier and safer for people to walk
and cycle, supporting good-quality housing and
strengthening community connections.
