Issue - meetings

To consider a report of the Deputy Director of Public Health.

At the last Scrutiny Committee in February, there was a request for a report relating to an analysis of the figures for excess winter deaths (EWD) in Stockport, and the programmes that we are putting in place to address this issue.  This report addresses the concerns raised.

The Scrutiny Committee is invited to comment on the report.

Anyone wishing to discuss the report should contact Donna Sager or Eleanor Banister on 0161 474 3928 / 2447, donna.sager@stockport.gov.uk Eleanor.banister@stockport.gov.uk

The Deputy Director of Public Health submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) providing the Scrutiny Committee with an analysis of the data for excess winter deaths (EWD) in the Stockport in 2012/13, and the measures in place to minimise these.

The Committee discussed whether there was any correlation between EWD and deprivation. It was stated that there was no clear link, although EWD affected those in older age cohorts, and the oldest residents tended to live in the more affluent areas where life expectancy was greater. It was suggested that those in affluent areas tended to be more isolated from their neighbours whereas those in less affluent areas were more likely to be known to the wider community who could offer assistance in extreme weather. It was stated that the Council was seeking to co-ordinate the activity of partners in these circumstances to maximise the opportunities to make contact with vulnerable residents.

RESOLVED – That the report be noted.