The health inequalities across the county are stark. The average life expectancy of those living in the most affluent parts of our county is 7 years higher for men and 4.5 years for women than those who live in the our most deprived communities. Air quality varies across the county, with those living in our most urban areas being greater exposed to pollutants. The pandemic highlighted the impact of inequality, with those in the worst housing conditions and most precarious work at highest risk.
The county council is responsible for many things that have a positive impact on mental and physical health. We need to broaden participation and access to things that improve health across all our communities. Access to dentistry and mental health services remain an urgent problem.