A new Health and Wellbeing Strategy has been adopted by Tendring District Council (TDC), setting out a clear vision to help residents live healthier, independent and more fulfilling lives.

The strategy, shaped by feedback from residents and partners during a public consultation, focuses on five key areas: tackling the wider causes of poor health, improving wellbeing and resilience, encouraging healthier lifestyles, supporting people with long-term conditions, and preventing suicide.

Changes made following the consultation include stronger links to national and county-wide health plans, and more detail on how physical activity can support better health — reflecting feedback from groups such as Active Essex and other partners.

Councillor Gina Placey, Cabinet Member for Partnerships, said: “This strategy is about making a real difference to people’s lives. Backed by a plan, it sets out how we’ll work with others to tackle the root causes of poor health in Tendring.

“From improving housing and supporting mental health, to encouraging physical activity and helping prevent suicide, we’re taking a joined-up approach that puts our residents first.

“Working with our partners, we want to improve the quality of life for everyone in our district — which is a key part of Our Vision for the future. We know the challenges, but we also know the strength of our communities and the opportunities we have to make a difference.”

Following its adoption at a Cabinet meeting today (Friday, 26 September), the council will now begin putting the strategy into action, starting with a series of quick wins and pilot projects to support public health across the district. These will be developed with funding from Essex County Council and in collaboration with local partners.

The council’s wider work in areas such as housing, planning, education and leisure is fundamental to the delivery of the health and wellbeing strategy — recognising that the wider determinants of health are about more than just healthcare.

Having a Health and Wellbeing Strategy as the council works through the Local Government Reorganisation process will allow local residents to be supported to healthier outcomes while any new council establishes its own such strategy.