Compared to the averages for England and Wales, the Island scores well on most indicators of good health. But we do not fare so well in terms of regional comparisons, as the south east enjoys better than average health.
On the Island there are marked health inequalities between different neighbourhoods.
There are significant differences in life expectancy between some wards, with a correlation between lower life expectancy and higher deprivation.
While the overall health picture is reasonably good there are also specific issues that need to be addressed – including levels of smoking and drug and alcohol misuse, promoting healthy living and reducing obesity, reducing the above average suicide rate and improving the availability of dental care.
The Island’s geography and demography creates challenges and opportunities for innovative models of health and social care.
Following the signing of a statement of intent in 2003, the council, the primary care trust and NHS trust are committed to the integration of health and care services within a new single body. We were also one of the first areas in the UK to develop three-way integration between the Department of Work and Pensions, Housing Benefit and Social Services.
We will create an Island where everyone enjoys the best possible health, has a good quality affordable home and generally enjoys a good quality of life.
We will achieve this by:
(More information can be found in the Community Strategy. For further detail on specific targets, please see the Local Area Agreement section of the site.)
