Torbay Care Trust

Love Life Be Happy Stay Healthy

Torbay Public Health Annual Report 2012 SETTING PERSONAL PLEDGES FOR A HEALTHIER LIFESTYLE

The drive to help people of all ages in through to March 2013) to encourage the Torbay’s biggest health problems - such Torbay to create better, healthier lives people of South Devon to become fitter, as smoking, alcohol dependence and for themselves has taken a giant leap healthier and happier – and have great obesity. forward during the year. fun doing it! It is a great start – where YOU can A wide range of Public Health initiatives It’s a campaign for ANYONE who wants make a difference to your life and quite – an exciting blend of healthy eating, to make a positive change to their possibly the lives of others. exercise and determination - have spread lifestyle, however small. Encouraged by the campaign, people of throughout the Bay, championed by The campaign has been endorsed by all ages have made pledges on personal the Public Health team and the Herald- four main sponsors: Torbay Council, challenges including: Express newspaper. Torbay and Southern Devon Health and • Cutting down or giving up cigarettes. The simple slogan says it all: LOVE LIFE, Care NHS Trust, Sanctuary Housing and BE HAPPY, STAY HEALTHY Europlas. It is also backed by associate • Taking more exercise, walking or sponsors Devon Fresh and Sanctuary running and losing weight. Torbay Public Health and the Herald Care. Express launched the loveLIFE health and • Developing cooking skills and eating well-being campaign ( February 2012 The central aim is to tackle some of more healthily. We have made real progress but the challenges remain

We have again moved forward significantly in our continuing Foreword from Debbie Stark efforts to empower people to improve their health and well- Director of Public Health being. This is also helping us to tackle inequalities.

This year’s Annual Report represents some Pictured left: Debbie Stark , Director of the steady progress in health in a year of of Public Health, and Paula Vasco- action, with growing problems in some areas Knight, Chief Executive of South Devon and many successes in others. Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, set As we prepare for key changes in the local out on a Bay Walk public health service we continue to explore the best way of delivering improvements to the health, well-being and happiness of that we need to continue to secure funding, people living in Torbay. effort and capacity in taking preventative measures or to avoid storing up problems up We know that we are still faced with a for the future. number of huge challenges such as obesity levels, increased drinking levels, and teenage As part of the NHS Health and Social Care pregnancies. Indications are that alcohol Act, Public Health will return to the Local impacts adversely on Torbay more than most Authority from April 2013. other areas in the country. This presents a number of opportunities to The Public Health team, together with the join up Public Health with wider functions support of a range of partners, have recorded such as transport, leisure, education and a number of substantial achievements over housing, as we know that they have a the last 12 months. significant impact on the lives and health of our population. In order to tackle the key issues and really the Herald Express in launching the LoveLife I have been pleased that so many make a difference, no one person or agency campaign, which has already demonstrated can do this alone. However, together with councillors have lent their support to the tangible benefits. We want people to LOVE LoveLife campaign and have welcomed the support, encouragement and a level of LIFE, BE HAPPY AND STAY HEALTHY. intervention, collectively we can make a opportunities that good health can have on difference. That is why I am so pleased that We face a time of severe austerity with the broader well-being - and, in so doing, we have developed a new partnership with reduced spending. However, we recognise leading by example.

2 The hidden dangers of a less active life It is inevitable that to some extent risk of health problems such as heart pages of this Public Health annual we are less active than we used to be. disease, cancer, obesity, diabetes and report we look at the many ways local More office and home-based jobs, osteoporosis (brittle bones). In Torbay, people are positively improving their longer working hours and greater use surveys suggest that Torbay’s over- health, but also focus on a number of of cars all contribute to a less active 16 population is less active than the particular risks to health that continue lifestyle – which leaves us at a greater national average. In the following to pose challenges in Torbay. Healthy boom in Bay walks

You tell us these are some of the benefits

Here are some of the benefits reported by regular walkers: ‘You feel better in yourself and it lifts depression.’ ‘My blood pressure dropped and with healthy eating I lost over a stone.’ ‘I needed a purpose to get out and rebuild my energy and confidence, these walks motivated me to move on. ‘

Why Fitbay could be for you... Bay Walks, which have become well (for those with limited mobility or recovering established over the past 12 years in Torbay, from surgery) as well as the Progression The Fitbay GP exercise referral expanded further with highly successful Walks. Registered walking attendance has programme has been running weekend progression walks - longer walks doubled in the last year. successfully since 2004. with more challenging terrain. For more information, please contact: To take part, clients must be registered with The walks were supported by Torbay Coast Bay Walks Coordinator Tel: 01803 321867 and CountrysideTrust (TCCT) who advertised a Torbay GP Practice, and be over 16, as well Email: [email protected] as being motivated to increase their activity them in their events diary and online. Bay levels, must have a medical condition that Walks now offers the regular Health Walks Web: http://www.torbaycaretrust.nhs.uk would benefit from increasing their physical activity (including overweight and obesity) and must be able to commit to a 10-week exercise programme. Way of gaining better stability The programme is subsidised at just £36 per A 12-week Balance and Strength person and is available currently from 11 exercise programme provides different facilities in Torbay: weekly classes in Torquay, Paignton and Brixham for people • Aztec Gym with: • Barton Surgery Gym • A history of falls, fear of falling, • Brixham College Sports Centre problems with balance and • English Riviera Centre confidence and osteoporosis. • Inch By Inch Toning Salon Whilst the rate of over-65s • Osborne Hotel admitted for fracture neck of femur is less than the England average, • Torbay Leisure Centre our larger elderly population • Torquay Community College makes it an area of focus and • Winners 2000 priority for public health to ensure For more details of the balance and strength exercise • Tonewize we encourage people to stay active and keep healthy in later life. programme, please contact Fitness Co-ordinator Andy • Yoga Torbay Simpson on 01803 321867. 3 Mixing sport and health by design Parkfield Youth Centre in Paignton is quite a place for young people - and no wonder as they were fully involved in its design. The centre opened in October 2011 following a successful Big Lottery bid of £4.8 million. It provides an impressive outdoor skate park, large bmx/wheeled dirt track, woodland tracks and outdoor and indoor climbing walls as well as indoors sports hall and range of meeting rooms. Health services, working in partnership with youth workers, also provide advice and guidance as well as a ‘quit smoking’ drop-in, specialist midwife appointments ‘Biking it’ is so much and C Card distribution. better for children One college and seven primary schools signed up to the ‘Bike It’ campaign which got under way this autumn – boosting A favourite moment this term: the interest in safe cycling and exercise. At Queensway Primary School, two sisters from a disadvantaged family were so Teachers are reporting increased alertness desperate to go to the Bikers’ Breakfast and parents improved health and happiness. that their mum bought them both second- The initiative covering bikes and pedal hand scooters so that they could join in. scooters was launched by Sustrans with funding partners Torbay Council and Torbay and Southern Devon Health and Care NHS Trust. who either arrived on a bike or scooter also • Public Health’s move back to the local Children have learned about bike safety proved a popular feature. authority will bring closer links on a checks, fixing punctures, checking their Key activities planned for next term include: range of health issues. Already a number scooter and how to ride safely and responsibly of groups have been set up which offer whilst on the pavement. It has also prompted A Pedal for Medals inter-school competition the opportunity for people from Black a new look at bike and scooter storage in and from Cyclepods has come a free Scooter Minority Ethnic communities and cultures some cases. Encouraging cycling to school, Pod which will go to the winning school to meet, to support each other and provide where feasible, is also promoted. Free bikers’ with the highest number of bike or scooter opportunities to have fun and enjoy time breakfasts served to pupils, parents and staff journeys per pupil head. together. Over-50s learn more about skin cancer For the ‘Know your Skin’ campaign run discuss sun safety behaviour in July 2012 and aimed at the over-50s, Healthy Living Advisors from pharmacies Key results of campaign across Torbay and Southern Devon were • Staff recorded 1125 conversations with trained in cascading messages and customers about skin cancer prevention promoting sun safety. and early diagnosis, an increase of 25% Pharmacies play a key role in promoting from 897 in 2011. public health and have agreed to run • Customers returned 538 quiz tear-off three campaigns a year as part of the feedback forms, an increase of 33% from promotion. 405 in 2011. 58% of these were completed The 2012 campaign was designed to: their skin and see their GP if appropriate. by over 50s, an increase of 3% from 2011. • Increase awareness of the signs of skin • Increase pharmacy staff knowledge • Staff made 83 referrals/ cancer among pharmacy customers. about the signs of skin cancer recommendations for the customer to see a GP about their skin. • To encourage customers over 50 to check • Improve pharmacy staff confidence to

4 Huge benefit from WHAT WE ARE DOING changing our diet ABOUT IT • Cook 4 Life – ‘Train the Obesity is not a disease Trainer’ courses have been a huge success with 26 people – but mainly dictated by completing the three-day the way we live our lives. training before going on to run cooking classes in local Modelled estimates using Health Survey communities, championing for England 2006-2008 indicate that healthier food and healthier more adults in Torbay are obese - 27.6% lives. (eg Sanctuary housing compared to the England average of work, children centres). 24.2%.

Children in Torbay are, on average, less obese than the national average. • Training has been given to However, there has been an increase in staff working in GP surgeries, the proportion of children considered as to enable them to engage overweight in the Bay. people in discussion about eating habits and lifestyles. Mid-April 2012 saw the launch of the long-awaited Torbay and Southern Devon Specialist Obesity Service, which provides It is estimated that a third of deaths from cancer • Catering staff in care intensive weight loss support from a and a quarter of deaths from heart disease homes and Early Years’ dedicated multidisciplinary team. could be prevented by changing the food we providers have received Results so far are encouraging. It is eat. Other benefits include controlling weight short training sessions on expected that up to 20 programmes will and preventing diabetes, arthritis and mobility nutrition. be provided each year. problems. Changing diet has more effect the earlier it starts, but benefits can be achieved at In addition, an improved Change4Life any time in our lives. • The Torbay lifestyle team adult weight management programme, dietitian has been working combining nutritional and behavioural with Torquay United and change with physical activity has been schools advisor on designing piloted and Increased support has come Estimated prevalence of persons aged 16 and over who are obese in Torbay and delivering a fun and from the Nutrition Team. interactive healthy lifestyle programme to children in The Mend programme has continued 35 for children and their families with eight 30 Key Stage 2. families successfully completing the 10- 25 The idea is to create healthy week programme. 20 15 habits to take with them the l Pictured above, one of the ‘Cook 4 Life’ 10 rest of their lives. sessions, which have been a great success in 5 % of over 16 population % of over 0 local communities within Torbay. 2003-2005 2006-2008 Tackling the worrying level of diabetes Diabetes is a major health issue and affects more than 7,000 people in WHAT WE ARE DOING ABOUT IT the Bay – and, worrying, numbers are growing by about 10% a year. The Public Health team have been more to recognise that the healthy running a programme of education living programme gives them the Torbay’s ageing population and (healthy living with diabetes) since best possible help and advice to increasing rates of obesity means 2006. help manage their diabetes and prevent long- term complications. that a higher percentage of people Between April 2011- April 2012, 214 have Type 2 diabetes. Without people attended the course held in We are always looking to improve effective management people with Torquay, Paignton and Brixham on a the course and a new leaflet was Wednesday morning. launched in the autumn. diabetes run the risk of developing This is 48% of those invited and we For more information, please complications, which may affect their are heading towards 54% for 2012- contact us on 01803 208834. sight, kidneys, circulation and heart. 2013 as we continue to encourage

5 Get the most out of life

Following a breast cancer scare “I am now attending a gym to ‘I feel last year, Councillor Cindy Stocks maintain the improvement I gained found herself physically and and continue to walk regularly and eat home-cooked meals. I have even better emotionally weak. started growing my own vegetables. She had already signed up for “This year I have produced potatoes, inside the LoveLIFE campaign and been tomatoes and strawberries, all grown introduced to a health trainer but Fit in bags to avoid the stooping and and I Bay was finally her saviour. strain on the back. “The trainers there created a personal “I would recommend Fit Bay and a programme for me that slowly health trainer to everyone but you now loosened all my joints and gave me must be prepared to continue the good improved posture and flexibility.... I felt habits you learn after the course has better inside and I now sleep longer ended.” sleep longer...’ and feel refreshed each morning. How we are improving health across the Bay

The Health Trainer workforce has • Torbay Council - Street Wardens. grown over the past 12 months from 5 • Action for Children - Torquay Children’s to 18 as part of the drive to empower centres. people to improve their own lives. • Jatis – housing-related support Health Trainers – in an initiative introduced commissioned by Torbay Supporting Councillor Jenny Faulkner takes to the water to two years ago - support people to make People. learn to swim and get fit while below Edward and lifestyle behaviour changes. Five Health Trainer champions have been Elizabeth Anderson decide to quit after a lifetime of The service has been successful in focusing recruited during the year. smoking. on supporting those living in the top 40% These volunteers have supported the of disadvantaged areas in Torbay and has Health Trainers and wider Lifestyles’ team All photos used here and elsewhere in this helped unpaid carers and individuals at by assisting at Public Health events, report - are by courtesy of the Herald Express risk of poor health. cascading public health materials, giving Eight Health Trainers are employed brief advice to community groups and by other organisations in Torbay. referring members of the public to local Subsequently the service has evolved into health services. a multi-agency partnership between a Events included the Olympic Torch range of stakeholders including: procession, Wear Red Day and Nordic • Torbay and Southern Devon Health Walking demonstrations. and Care NHS Trust - Lifestyles Team Why not become a Health Champion? and Pregnancy Health Trainers in Health (see our coupon on the Back Page) Visiting.

Left: Torquay dance group the Zumbarettes do their workout for the Herald’s LoveLIFE campaign while (right) keen local cyclists took to the roads over Dartmoor to make their pledges for greater fitness

6 Life expectancy still less for disadvantaged

Whilst life expectancy at 65 is Female life expectancy at birth 84 83 generally higher for residents in 82 81

Torbay compared to England, Years 80 79 within Torbay itself there are 78 77 significant variations. 1991-1993 1992-1994 1993-1995 1994-1996 1995-1997 1996-1998 1997-1999 1998-2000 1999-2001 2000-2002 2001-2003 2002-2004 2003-2005 2004-2006 2005-2007 2006-2008 2007-2009 2008-2010 Those living in the more deprived England South West Torbay (lower income) communities are living on average between six to Male life expectancy at birth 80 79 eight years less than those in the 78 77 less deprived communities. 76 75

Years 74 Factors such as smoking, 73 72 71 dependence on alcohol and 1991-1993 1992-1994 1993-1995 1994-1996 1995-1997 1996-1998 1997-1999 1998-2000 1999-2001 2000-2002 2001-2003 2002-2004 2003-2005 2004-2006 2005-2007 2006-2008 2007-2009 2008-2010 obesity all contribute significantly to earlier deaths. England South West Torbay Why it‘s much better if you don’t smoke... Smoking prevalence in Torbay In Torbay the rate of deaths attributable to is estimated to be significantly smoking of 35 years and older is 206 per 100,000 population (2007-2009). Deaths, like higher than the national average smoking itself, occur mostly among men. with around 1 in 4 adults in the Bay However, we estimate 1 in 3 pregnant women • Torbay Stop Smoking Service smoking. are smoking before becoming pregnant; 1 in can be contacted on Smoking is the main cause of preventable 4 are smoking at their first appointment with historically more than 1 in 5 still smoking at 01803 299160 death and ill health. Each cigarette can shorten your life by five minutes - on average the time of delivery. a staggering 10-15 years loss of life. Despite these figures, it was another Many people look back in later life and successful year for the Torbay Stop Smoking bitterly regret not giving up smoking. The Service. In combination with most GP fact is that your chances of better health start surgeries and some pharmacies, the service The stark facts to improve the moment you quit. exceeded its annual target and helped 1041 smokers to quit.

• The average smoker may die up to 12 years earlier than a comparative non-smoker as well WHAT WE ARE DOING ABOUT IT as suffering with chronically disabling diseases such as COPD Smoking in pregnancy remains a major Support for Torbay Hospital has continued (chronic obstructive pulmonary public health issue but there has been as they work hard to increase access to disease). impressive success in a reduction in stop-smoking medications for patients, as • In the UK, smokers in their 30s the number of women still smoking at well as enabling the easy referral of patients and 40s are five times more likely pregnancy - the best improvement in the wanting support to quit. There was an to have a heart attack than non- South West (17.3% against a target of 20%). increase of 20% in patients receiving stop- smokers. smoking medication and a 20% increase in This is down to the sustained collaborative the number of referrals being made. • By the age of 15, more than one approach between the Specialist Stop in seven young people are regular Smoking Services and Midwifery Services. Looking ahead, we will be: smokers. All midwives have received training on a • Reviewing smoking prevention Evidence shows that you are four yearly basis on key public health priorities programmes specific to young people and times more likely to successfully such as smoking cessation, breastfeeding, highlighting the dangers. quit smoking with specialist teenage pregnancy, substance and alcohol • Developing the stop-smoking clinics support. misuse in pregnancy, domestic abuse and and one-to-one support in accessible perinatal mental health. community venues. 7 Danger posed by alcohol

Alcohol misuse is a priority issue for all Quarterly rate of alcohol related admissions to hospital per 100,000 population services in Torbay, including the police, 600 local authority, housing, fire, health 500 400 and the voluntary sector. 300 200 Its effects can be far-reaching and devastating 100 0 and can lead to a whole range of problems 2008... 2008... 2008... 2008... 2009... 2009... 2009... 2009... 2010... 2010... 2010... 2010... 2011... 2011... 2011... 2011... including: England South West Torbay • Depression, insomnia, memory loss and high blood pressure as well as eventual ‘ The number of people claiming alcohol specific conditions (for both the alcohol dependence, liver disease and cancer. incapacity benefit in Torbay due to general population as well as for under-18s • Domestic violence, violent crime (including alcohol problems is one of the highest specifically). The number of people claiming incapacity benefit in Torbay due to alcohol the night time economy) acquisitive crimes rates in the country ‘ (such as burglary and shoplifting) and anti- problems is one of the highest rates in the country at 200 per100,000 population social behaviour. indicators that are regularly monitored on (ranked 10th highest in the country as of the LAPE website (highest denoting the • Fear of crime, poor perceptions of place August 2011). (neighbourhood/town centres), domestic least favourable position) although the rate fires, family dysfunction, lack of parental of alcohol-related admissions has lowered Sexual violence offences have averaged 160 responsibility. According to Local Alcohol slightly in 2011-12. per year over the past 5 years, with 176 in 2011-12. In many cases, alcohol appears to be Profiles for England (LAPE) data (www.lape. These indicators include mortality from a key factor. Of more than 25,000 domestic org.uk) Torbay’s ranking compared to all the chronic liver disease, alcohol specific abuse incidents recorded per year – 43% local authorities, nationally, is in the highest mortality, admissions to hospital for 20% for a significant number of alcohol record alcohol/drugs as a contributory factor. Recommended levels of alcohol WHAT WE ARE DOING ABOUT IT Men - should not drink regularly* more than We have introduced a simple, fast and effective alcohol screening 3-4 units a day (not programme (AST) for use by public sector agencies and certain voluntary much more than a pint sector agencies in Torbay, to combat the effects of problematic alcohol of strong lager, beer or use. cider (ABV 5.2%) We advocate that tackling alcohol misuse is everyone’s business and Women - should not agencies and charities operating within the community setting or drink regularly* more delivering over the threshold services, such as the police, housing and than 2-3 units a day (no local authority, are well placed to undertake supported screening and more than a standard signposting. 175ml glass of wine (ABV 1. Local alcohol services can be accessed through a number of routes: 13%) Online referral: http://www.torbayalcoholservices.nhs.uk 2. Email: [email protected] * ‘Regularly’ means Public health have designed and commissioned an Assertive Outreach drinking this amount Service on behalf of local GPs. Early outcomes have seen a 76% reduction most days or every day in A&E attendance. ‘Remember you are role models’ Parents this year were urged to think models, and will copy parents’ behaviour.” hard about how their own drinking The Torbay Alcohol Service is able to habits can impact upon their children. offer a range of advice and support and can be contacted on 01803 604334. The hard-hitting messages from the ‘alcohol More information about the support and and parenting don’t mix’ campaign, launched services available can be found at www. in May 2012, were spread through posters torbaycaretrust.nhs.uk/parentingandalcohol displayed on the back of buses using local routes and at a number of venues across • Children or young people seeking advice Torbay, including schools and GP practices. and guidance on alcohol misuse either for themselves or relating to a friend or family Mark Richards, Project Manager for Public member can ring: Health and Community Safety, said: “ We want to make parents stop and think about Checkpoint on 01803 200100 or the effect that drinking alcohol can have on ChildLine on 0800 1111 children.” • Remember two-thirds of admissions Debbie Stark, Director of Public Health for to hospital come from older patients Torbay, said: “We must also remember that who may not consider themselves as children look up to their parents as role drinking more than they should. 8 Need to boost breastfeeding The proportion of Torbay babies breastfed easily accessible support to mothers in for 6-8 weeks has increased from 35.8% in hospital and at home from around 8 weeks 2010-11 to 39.0% in 2011-12. via the telephone and groups in local settings. A significant development - but breastfeeding rates in Torbay are well l The World Health Organisation strongly below the national average and ‘baby recommends exclusive breastfeeding friendly’ action to improve rates and tackle for the first six months of life. At six health inequalities needs to continue. A months, other foods should complement peer support programme has provided breastfeeding for up to two years or more. Teenage conceptions: A positive step forward but still a priority Teenage conception rates for 2010 have continued Teenage Conceptions showing planned reduction from 1998 to reach England to fall for a second year, a very positive step in the rate per 1,000 15-17 year olds by 2013 right direction - but tackling teenage pregnancy 70

and ensuring good sexual health remains a priority. 60 50 40 Over the last few years Torbay has made huge strides 30 20 in addressing the problem of teenage conceptions. Rate per 1,000 15 to 17 year old 17 year 15 to 10 Representatives of Public Health, Torbay Council, 0 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 schools, the Herald Express, councillors and numerous Year of Conception other interested groups came together for a unique meeting in June 2012 to decide key actions for the next England South West Torbay couple of years, bearing in mind financial constraints. Data Source: ONS Local targets: 2011: 42.8; 2012: 39.1; 2013: 35.4 Two action areas to get the message across stood out: The Healthwize • Greater use of social media and smart phone ‘apps.’ shop had over • The need to work with young men in order to reduce 1500 visitors who teenage conceptions. received support and advice on a whole range of WHAT WE ARE DOING ABOUT IT issues affecting young people. Overall conceptions have fallen by 15% - testimony to Left: Director of the immense work that has been undertaken across all Public Health agencies and within schools. Debbie Stark It is vital that young people feel comfortable to access and Ros Chown information and services to support them in looking (Health Advisor) after their sexual health. with students from the South • Integrated sexual health clinics are offering more Devon College. accessible and comprehensive range of contraceptives. Young people’s video and an app to follow The Healthwize shop in Union Street, line with national figures. Torquay (opposite Argos) offered support • The numbers of people coming forward and advice on sexual health (e.g. condom for Chlamydia screening has increased, with distribution (C-card), chlamydia screening Torbay being one of the most successful and pregnancy testing, physical, emotional regionally. and mental health, as well as signposting to other services. • High abortion rates for under-25s, compared to both regional and national, also underline • Improved information is available via the the need to build on the success we have had internet with a new sexual health video to date with improving people’s knowledge being made by young people at South Devon services and the local video on sexual health and awareness of services available to them. College charting the journey to accessing a services can be found at: www.s-wize.co.uk sexual health service. We will be working on the development of an • The rate of Sexually-Transmitted Diseases ‘app’ in 2012-13. Information on Sexual health including local (STIs) overall has shown steady increase in 9 Caring - a recipe for success

An innovative cooking course this l The recruitment of Health year gave male carers a chance Trainer Champions (HTC) has led to established links to increase their cooking skills with Young Adult Carers in and the repertoire of dishes they particular where the HTC could share with the person they attended the drop-in session at South Devon College care for. to promote the Lifestyles Discussions with Torbay and Southern Devon services and provide young Health and Care Trust and the Lifestyles Team adult carers with public resulted in the course being joint funded, health information and using Occombe Farm training kitchen as the discuss lifestyle behaviours. venue. practical experience of preparing and l The course was kick-started with celebrity cooking healthy, tasty food. Making pastry into pies chef Simon Hulstone from Torquay restaurant l Pasta dishes and pizzas The Elephant demonstrating several easy, Carers were taught the concept of balanced cost -effective recipes to whet the group’s eating and how to achieve a nutritious diet ..and some became accomplished sponge culinary appetites. while coping with health needs/special diets, makers after just one attempt! Most carers and how to work within budget and possible want to continue to expand their repertoires The ‘Men Care About Food’ 6-week time constraints. and enjoy a relaxed activity with others in programme comprised of two hours of similar situations. hands on cooking led by Penny Jones, caterer The course has been regularly attended by 10 and cooking tutor, with Rebecca Bovey, men aged from 19 to 83 and dishes (dictated If you would like to know more about Health Trainer and Pam Harvey (Community by the group) included: this course or apply for future courses Dietician) on hand to give practical support l Filleting and cooking mackerel please contact Rebecca Bovey on (01803) and healthy eating tips. The course provided 208835.

The cooking course for men carers brought some time this has given me the confidence ‘I loved taking some rewarding comments. Here are some: to try other things.’ ‘ I loved taking lovely meals home with me.’ ‘This course has given me the confidence lovely meals to experiment and showed how simple ‘Pam, Rebecca and Penny were brilliant- seemingly complicated recipes actually are.’ home with me’ lots of patience. Although I have cooked for Range of help for vulnerable young carers Young carers under 25 are vulnerable to for young carers is delivered: • Supporting young people as they move poor outcomes because they frequently from primary to secondary school, from • Drop-in and appointment-based service forego opportunities, worry when they secondary school to college, and into within most secondary schools and South do take up opportunities, feel responsible employment. Devon College and Saturday drop-ins for for others and lack the social networks Young Carers under 18, alternate Wednesdays • Events and activities - for example, a Soup experienced by peers without caring roles. for 16 to 25-year-olds. and Smoothie taster session at the Young Evidence shows that 30% of young Adult Carers drop-in at South Devon College. • A service for young people whose caring carers experience problems at school roles are due to substance or alcohol misuse, If you are a Young Adult Carer, or you know with attendance, attainment and social mental health or domestic violence. someone aged 16 – 25 years old, who is development, rising to 40% where they care in a caring role, please contact us via our within a family affected by substance misuse. • Targeted weekly groups for younger carers website www.torbayyac.co.uk or e-mail with higher level need. To cope, young carers may drift into excessive use of alcohol or substances, self- harm, or into crime or risk-taking activities. Recognised national risk factors attributed to teenage pregnancy are also highly prevalent New support group to involve families for this group. There is now a support scheme for carers whole families to improve the success National estimates suggest that between and families of people with drug and of treatment. A Carers’ Support Worker 6-12% of all children and young people of alcohol problems following national will work both with families of people in school age are caring for a parent. Adding recognition of the need. A two-year treatment and families not engaged with a sibling to this will increase it further and project – with a Steering Group of partners services, offering emotional and practical would put the number in Torbay closer to from statutory and voluntary agencies - support. For more details, contact us on 2,400 (by 2001 census figures). will develop the support and work with 01803 219790. To tackle the situation, a broad range of services 10 Torbay flagged up as a ‘safe and enjoyable’ place Torbay has been awarded the National • Basic welfare for people who have been Purple Flag which recognises it as a safe drinking. and enjoyable place to have a night out. • Reducing vulnerability of lone Street Pastors have contributed to this individuals. and have gone from strength to strength • Calming emotional or aggressive since they were set up in March 2008 situations. The Street Pastors are 81 trained • Local information - night buses, taxi volunteers from local churches, stands. supported by the police and Torbay They are completely non-judgemental. Council. Each volunteer gives one night Their role includes listening, caring, • Acting as a signpost to local services. per month and ages range from 18 to 86. helping and other key tasks: Tackling drugs pays dividends Drug–related crime costs networking site Facebook and around 145 people click through to the website to find society. The annual bill for drug- out about further information and support. related crime runs to billions of Growth in rate The expectations from drug treatment pounds. have undergone a shift in emphasis over of success A drug addict not in treatment costs society the last couple of years. The National Treatment Agency for an average £26,074 a year, but the moment Drug treatment systems are recovery Substance Misuse (NTA) monitors the treatment starts, drug addicts commit less focussed services, aiming for all drug users crime – by almost half on average when effectiveness of local drug treatment to turn their lives around and become systems. The NTA performance they complete a treatment programme free from drug dependence and to be or stay in treatment for up to two years. monitoring currently shows that effectively skilled to reintegrate fully into Torbay has against the national There are further gains if they sustain their society. recovery. average: Services have been redesigned to provide · Better rates of growth for numbers In December last the public health team a new strategic direction; aiming to of opiate users in effective treatment used social media to raise awareness of increase the numbers entering in effective (2.4% vs -1.0%) and non-opiate users the support available for young adults treatment locally, whilst also improving the in effective treatment (50% vs 0.5%). who are worried about substance misuse. outcomes for those leaving treatment. The · High rates of completion of Hepatitis The advert linked to the service website redesign processes have elicited positive C testing in the eligible population for a period of a month through the social responses. (90% vs 71%). · High rates of completion of Discovering road to recovery Hepatitis B Vaccination in the eligible population (70% vs 43%). As part of the wider programme to look at Self–management for Long Term support people with emotional and Conditions. The Lifestyles Team have been · Better rates of growth for number of opiate users being successfully mental health problems, the Mental working jointly with Lay Tutors on self- discharged than our cluster average Health ‘First Aid’ training has gone management programmes for those living with depression and 107 people have (1.7% vs 0.1%). from strength to strength. completed the course. · Better rates of growth for numbers It gives people the confidence and skills For the first time WRAP (Wellness Recovery of non-opiate users being successfully to recognise early on and support people discharged than our cluster average Action Plan) was offered as part of the they come in to contact with in their jobs (32.1% vs -0.5%). Carers’ Week. who may be experiencing poor emotional · 100% abstinence from opiate, health. l Torbay was successful in a bid to the crack and cocaine use at successful Department of Health to join the Children A total of 64 people from a wide range of treatment exit. and Young People’s ‘Improving Access to backgrounds have attended training over Psychological therapies Project (IAPT). For information regarding entry to the past 12 months. The Lifestyles Team Funding will be used to train therapists, treatment contact: Torbay Primary have been working in partnership with supervisors and service managers, Care Drug Service 01803 604330. Co-Creating Health, a five-year project introduce self-referral for families and funded by the Health Foundation, to other improvements. HOW DEMENTIA HAS A HUGE EFFECT ON US IN THE BAY It is estimated that 43% of the population homes. It has also been estimated that tackling this by providing an education and of Torbay is affected in some way by one in three people over 65 years of age awareness programme to improve earlier dementia either through knowing a close will have dementia before they die, with a diagnosis rates; and commissioning peer friend or a family member. One third live in higher prevalence in the older population support services through the third sector, as care homes and two thirds live in their own of one in four over 80 years of age. We are well as improved prescribing. 11 Success in public protection Vaccination and immunisation and decline. There also has been a steady increase screening programmes are vitally in the uptake of MMR over the last three years. In 2011-12, 92.4% of two-year-olds Well-being at work important in preventing ill-health had received one dose of MMR and 85.1% of Both South Devon Foundation and protecting the population. five-year -olds had received two doses. Healthcare NHS Trust and Torbay The annual flu immunisation campaign saw Two doses are important to provide effective and Southern Devon Health and Care an increased uptake of vaccine among health protection. NHS Trust are working to promote and social care workers. Uptake in people health and well-being of employees. aged 65 and over was 70.3% in 2011-12 The uptake of HPV among teenagers is good; Over the past 12 months a total of against a target of 75%. 77.9% of Year eight girls aged 12 – 13 years 12 Well-being @ Work presentations received three doses this year. have been held and 21 Wellbeing Uptake in people who are in a clinical risk @ Work champions have been group and aged from six months to 65 years The NHS Health Check for 40 to 74-year-olds, recruited. Health Promotion Devon was 46.8%, so there is concern that so many which helps identify the risk of developing have nearly 350 teams signed up people remain unprotected. heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes or kidney disease, has been successfully for their Step O Meter programme, Following a health promotion campaign, introduced in Torbay having reached the where pedometers are given out on we have seen an increase in the number target set of 18%. The check also helps you loan in order to encourage extended of women 25 to 64 years coming forward take measures to reduce and prevent the walking. for cervical screening after several years of onset of these health problems. Target to recruit more health visitors Early intervention and preventative measures are key drivers to tackling and reducing health inequalities and stemming the escalation of ill Love Life health. Health visitors, working universally with Become a health champion families, are in a key position to identify Two years ago saw the introduction of Health Trainer Champions - volunteers from early on health and wider social issues the community who have an interest in health, and who have either had experiences facing families. of being supported by a Health Trainer or a Lifestyles service. Now Torbay Public School nursing plays another important Health team are keen to recruit more volunteer Health Champions. These are some part in working with children and their of the comments we have received about the positive effects of Health Trainers. families on a number of wider challenges ‘The Health Trainer helped me reassess my lifestyle and I realised that I could do with some - including unemployment, mental health help in becoming more active, in relaxation and diet.’ problems, crime and anti-social behaviour as well as those children not in education ‘I feel I have started a journey that I do not think I could have started alone....’ who are more vulnerable to risk-taking behaviours. David Thomas, Deputy Mayor and Executive Recognising these challenges, the Lead for Spatial Planning, Housing, Waste and Government has set a target to increase Energy has this to say on health champions: the numbers of qualified health visitors by ‘I found the course to be extremely enlightening... 4,200 by 2015. The plan for growth across it was very interesting to learn the best approach Torbay is 30 additional qualified health visitors. This will help us to deliver the to bring about positive outcomes for individuals. ‘Healthy Child Programme’ which focuses Change can only be brought about when an on prevention and early intervention, individual is ‘ready’ to make that change - however working with families and communities. the course taught me where to signpost people along that journey.’ More information I would like to know more about becoming a Health Champion. If you would like more information Please send me or email me details and an application form...... about any of the sections within this report please use the weblinks NAME provided or contact us on: [email protected] ADDRESS call 01803 321158 or write to Public Health Team, St Edmunds, Victoria POSTCODE Park Road. torquay, TQ1 3QH

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