Agenda item

The meeting received a report and presentation on the role and scope of health protection work being undertaken in Barnsley, including the system where a range of organisations have responsibility to respond to threats to the health of the population.  The meeting noted action in relation to preventing future deaths from food induced anaphylaxis and the measles action plan as examples of work undertaken under the auspice of the Barnsley Health Protection Board.  The meeting also noted work to undertake an audit of local health protection arrangements, to review plans and test response arrangements.

The meeting noted the intention to incorporate a check of food businesses’ procedures in relation to preventing anaphylaxis as part of the normal food hygiene regime.  Members commented on the emphasis in relation to food businesses, and noted that many food related services might now be provided in the voluntary and community sector.  There was a need to be clear whether the proposed checks would pick up this type of activity.

The meeting noted the recent publication of data in relation to sexually transmitted diseases, which had seen a 25% increase nationally.  There was a need to consider the data for Barnsley to identify if this raises any issues for the Health and Wellbeing Board.  In relation to flu vaccinations, the meeting noted the need for further promotion for next winter, although it was understood that vaccination rates in Barnsley for 2017/18 were the highest ever achieved.

RESOLVED:-

(i)        that the approach to health protection in Barnsley, as identified in the report, be noted and minutes of the Health Protection Board be received by the Health and Wellbeing Board by exception when there are matters in need of further consideration;

(ii)       that a report be submitted on an annual basis to the Health and Wellbeing Board on Health Protection Board activity to provide assurance that the health of the residents of Barnsley is being protected in a pro-active and effective way; and

(iii)      that the Director of Public Health review the data on sexually transmitted diseases in Barnsley for reporting to the Board in order that any further actions can be considered.