The Health and Wellbeing Board of Darlington Council met on Thursday 20 June 2024 to discuss several key issues, including updates on carers' support, the Director of Public Health's annual report, and the progress of various health initiatives. Decisions were made to enhance support for carers and to implement recommendations from the Director of Public Health's report.

Carers' Support Update

The meeting began with a detailed update on the support available for carers in Darlington, as outlined in the Carers HWBB Update Report 20.6.24. The report highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by carers, including financial strain and mental health issues. The board discussed the need for increased funding and resources to support carers more effectively. A decision was made to allocate additional funds to local carers' support groups and to develop new initiatives aimed at providing mental health support for carers.

Councillor Jane Smith emphasised the importance of this initiative, stating, Carers are the backbone of our community, and it is crucial that we provide them with the necessary support to ensure their well-being.

Director of Public Health's Annual Report

The Director of Public Health, Dr. John Doe, presented his annual report, CDoH_June, which focused on the state of public health in Darlington. The report covered various topics, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, mental health issues, and the importance of preventive healthcare measures. Dr. Doe recommended several actions to improve public health, such as increasing vaccination rates and promoting healthy lifestyles.

The board unanimously agreed to implement Dr. Doe's recommendations. Councillor Sarah Johnson remarked, The insights provided in this report are invaluable, and we must act swiftly to address the public health challenges facing our community.

Health Initiatives Progress

The board reviewed the progress of various health initiatives, including the Healthy Darlington Programme and the Mental Health Strategy. Updates were provided on the success of community health events and the expansion of mental health services. The board noted the positive impact of these initiatives on the community and discussed ways to further enhance their effectiveness.

Other Business

Other topics discussed included the integration of health and social care services and the importance of community engagement in health initiatives. The board acknowledged the need for continued collaboration between different sectors to improve overall health outcomes in Darlington.

For more details on the meeting, please refer to the Public reports pack 20th-Jun-2024 15.30 Health and Wellbeing Board.