Agenda item

The meeting received a report and presentation on progress in the multi-agency work to tackle excess winter deaths and cold related illnesses in Barnsley and prepare for Winter 2018/19 and beyond.  The presentation identified the activity progressed following discussion at the Health and Wellbeing Board in April 2018 and the action plan for 2018-2021, focusing in particular on prevention and early help, with a range of collaborative actions across partners. 

The presentation noted the importance of agencies working together to identify and assess vulnerable adults at risk from early winter deaths and cold related illnesses and to support in particular the development and delivery of the Warms Home Single Point of Access.  The meeting noted in particular the importance of a joint communication plan in this area, but using media most likely to reach those groups most affected provided through a range of settings.  The meeting discussed the importance of focusing on respiratory issues as a key component to tackling excess winter deaths.  The use of specialist respiratory nurses through the Breathe service was important, and there was also a need to focus on flu vaccination and ensuring the availability of rescue medication for patients.  The meeting also discussed the importance of connecting this work to the A&E Delivery Board, which was also aware of the issues related to social care and discharge/reablement arrangements.

RESOLVED:-

(i)        that the progress made on the action plan for tackling excess winter deaths and cold related illnesses as set out in the report and presentation be welcomed;

(ii)       that the proposed calls for action for the Health and Wellbeing Board and partner agencies be supported, including:

·         Identification of vulnerable adults at risk from excess winter deaths and cold related illnesses;

·         Support for commissioning arrangements for the Warm Homes Single Point of Access;

·         Ensuring that planning includes identifying relevant local interventions and providers across integrated care, including assessment, admission and discharge arrangements;

·         Support for the joint communication plan for tackling early winter deaths; and

(iii)      that arrangements be put in place for the necessary action and communications across stakeholders to take forward the action plan.