Disadvantaged communities in the town are ‘disproportionately affected’ by health risks, says a report.

The Warrington health protection board annual report 2023-24 will come before the health and wellbeing board at its meeting on Thursday.

The health and wellbeing board is recommended to note the annual report and recommendations to ‘protect population health’.

The purpose of the report is to provide the board with an update on the existing public health protection system, governance arrangements and current position in Warrington.

According to the report, health protection involves activities that aim to prevent or minimise harm from exposure to various biological and environmental hazards.

It says these hazards include weather events, infectious diseases, conflict, terrorism, state security issues, as well as incidents related to chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) events and cyber security.

The ‘key areas of focus’ highlighted in the report include inequalities, vaccination and immunisation, and screening.

In relation to inequalities, the report says: “The Covid-19 pandemic highlighted the urgent need to address social determinants of health, a key priority of the Living Well in Warrington Strategy (2024-2028).

“Disadvantaged communities are disproportionately affected by health risks due to factors such as limited access to healthcare, poor health information, pre-existing conditions, and economic challenges. To combat these issues, the Warrington health protection board is dedicated to removing barriers to health equity.

“In partnership with the integrated care board (ICB), local authority (LA), and local NHS services, efforts are focused on improving vaccine uptake, enhancing screening programs, public health messaging and ensuring equitable health protection for Warrington’s most deprived communities.”