The Health and Adult Social Care Scrutiny Committee of West Sussex Council convened on Wednesday, 19 June 2024, to discuss various significant issues, including the performance and resources report, access to dentistry, and the situation at Zachary Merton Hospital.

Zachary Merton Hospital in Rustington

Councillor Walsh raised concerns about the future of Zachary Merton Hospital in Rustington. He highlighted that the health authorities have requested a long lease on office space at the Arun Civic Center, suggesting that the hospital might not reopen soon. The committee agreed to write to the relevant authorities to seek clarification and updates on the hospital's status.

Access to Dentistry

The committee discussed the ongoing issues with access to dentistry in West Sussex. Councillor Walsh emphasized the worsening situation and the need for urgent measures. The committee acknowledged the importance of this issue and agreed to keep it on the agenda for future meetings to ensure continuous monitoring and updates.

Performance and Resources Report - Quarter 4 2023/24

The committee reviewed the Performance and Resources Report for Quarter 4 2023/24, which highlighted several key points:

• Adult Services: The report indicated a 4.2% overspend in the adult social care budget, driven by increased demand and care costs. The committee discussed various measures being taken to manage the budget, including the development of extra care facilities and supported living options.
• Public Health: The committee noted the challenges in improving the healthy life expectancy for men and women and the need for more effective smoking cessation programs. The importance of personal responsibility in health behaviors was also emphasized.

Mental Health Needs Assessment

The committee discussed the upcoming publication of the all-age public mental health needs assessment, which is expected in July. This assessment will provide crucial data to inform future strategies and actions to address mental health issues in the community.

Chlamydia Screening and Sexual Health Services

Concerns were raised about the low uptake of chlamydia screening in West Sussex. The committee discussed the need for improved access and education, particularly for young people. Healthwatch West Sussex also highlighted the increasing issue of domestic abuse and violence, with more people coming forward for help.

Smoking Cessation

The committee expressed concerns about the current smoking cessation efforts and the need for more ambitious targets. The additional funding from the government for smoking cessation was noted, and the committee emphasized the importance of using these funds effectively to reduce smoking rates in the county.

Future Work Programme

The committee reviewed its work programme and agreed to include updates on the digital carers pathway, individual service funds, and the Healthy Child Programme. The committee also supported the proposal to consider reablement as a potential item for future scrutiny.

For more details, you can refer to the minutes of the last meeting of the Committee and the public reports pack.