'Wellbeing strategy faces 'significant challenges'

UPDATE SAYS AGENCIES MUST WORK TOGETHER

- By STUART ARNOLD

LONG term systemic solutions to challenges in the South Tees area “remain elusive”, according to an update on a health and wellbeing strategy that is being pursued.

The strategy which was agreed last year by a South Tees health and wellbeing board, which has leaders from the health and care sector as well as councillor representatives in Middlesbrough and Redcar and Cleveland, aims to empower residents to live longer and healthier lives.

Three broad elements are included - ‘start well; ensuring that children and young people grow up in a community that promotes safety, aspiration, resilience and healthy lifestyles; ‘live well’ meaning people improve their quality of life through opportunities to achieve a healthier lifestyle; and ‘age well’ which aspires to have elderly residents leading independent lives where possible with appropriate support.