Agenda item

Jon Hobday Director of Public health in attendance to support this item

Jon Hobday, Director of Public Health, provided an overview of health inequalities in Bury, drawing on a presentation that highlighted key data and trends. He began by discussing life expectancy, noting that Bury’s figures are significantly lower in the north of the borough compared to the south. The impact of COVID-19 was substantial, causing a sharp decline in life expectancy, although there has been a slight recovery since 2020.

Jon explained that the gap in life expectancy between the most and least deprived areas in Bury remains wide. He outlined several major contributors to this disparity, including liver disease, lung and other cancers, heart disease, accidental poisoning (including overdoses), dementia, external causes such as accidents, and respiratory diseases like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Over the past two years, a number of key actions have been taken to address these issues. These include efforts to reduce poverty and respond to the cost-of-living crisis, improve access to pension credit, and implement a new “Live Well” model. Work has also been done to reduce inequalities in smoking-related illness, improve diet through the development of the Bury Food Strategy, and create an alcohol licensing matrix. In addition, care for people with coronary heart disease has been improved, and steps have been taken to increase uptake of MMR vaccines, including additional clinics and outreach into communities and mosques.

Looking ahead, Jon emphasised the importance of continuing work across all four quadrants of the Health and Wellbeing Board. He stressed that this work is ongoing and will be shared through the board to ensure alignment and progress.

Councillor Tariq expressed support for the approach and highlighted the importance of connecting this work to the “Let’s Do It” strategy. He referenced previous discussions around childhood disability, inequalities affecting BME women, and other areas, stressing that aligning with the strategy’s principles is vital. He noted that health inequalities are everyone’s responsibility and that many council objectives are linked to this issue.

Councillor Rubenstein raised a question about the impact of differing service quality nationally and whether this is measurable. Jon responded that certain groups do struggle with access and that quality impact assessments are important. He noted that disparities exist in health access provision, particularly in primary care, and that travel requirements can be a barrier. Ensuring accessibility for all is a key priority.

Councillor FitzGerald commented on the socioeconomic pressures faced by residents, such as the need to work multiple jobs, and how these pressures contribute to health inequalities. She also highlighted the stark contrast in life expectancy between different parts of Bury, referencing the statistic that 11 times more people died during COVID-19 in the north compared to the south.

Councillor McBriar referred to data on breast cancer and asked whether the increase in positive cases was due to improved screening. He also raised concerns about the lack of a national screening programme for prostate cancer. Dr Cathy Fines explained that prostate screening is not offered nationally in the same way as breast screening, as it targets symptomless individuals and requires meeting specific criteria. A blood test is available, but awareness remains low. Jon added that all screening programmes must undergo rigorous evaluation before implementation.

Councillor McBriar also asked about vaccination uptake among children and whether vaccinations are still administered in schools. Jon confirmed that vaccinations are delivered through a combination of school-based programmes and primary care, coordinated by IntraHealth.

Councillor Haroon asked about the key factors contributing to health inequalities in Bury and how life expectancy has changed over time. Jon reiterated the role of chronic conditions such as liver and lung disease and COPD. He also noted that the “Let’s Do It” strategy is embedded within the broader population health model.

Councillor Boles asked whether breakfast clubs in schools have had an impact. Jon reported that an auto-enrolment scheme had been introduced, resulting in several hundred additional children accessing the service. Feedback has been positive, and further updates will be shared.

Jon also spoke about a successful initiative around sexual health commissioning, which involved outreach to sex workers across Greater Manchester. This proactive approach has led to meaningful engagement and support for vulnerable individuals.

Councillor Simpson highlighted the significant life expectancy gap in Radcliffe, where men live on average 12.5 years less than elsewhere in Greater Manchester. Jon acknowledged the severity of the issue and pointed to ongoing community-based work and the Live Well model as part of the response.

The item concluded with a shared commitment to continue addressing health inequalities through collaborative action, strategic alignment, and community engagement.

It Was Agreed

·         The update be noted