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'Radical' approach to public health unveiled
Health secretary Andrew Lansley has announced plans for a 'radical' new public health service to encourage people in England to adopt healthier lifestyles.
Public Health England will see the government hand over more power to local authorities, with ring-fenced funding from within the overall NHS budget to be made available. The Department of Health estimates that around £4bn will be spent on the delivery of the new service, which will also incorporate industry, charities and other departments.
In his White Paper, Lansley said the approach would incorporate projects such as the new £135m Olympic legacy participation programme and the protection of green spaces. Government plans include ensuring communities are designed for 'active ageing', as well as giving every child the opportunity to benefit from the 'best start in life'.
Lansley said: "People's health and wellbeing will be at the heart of everything local councils do. It's nonsense to think that health can be tackled on its own." "Directors of Public Health will be able to champion local cooperation so that health issues are considered alongside housing, transport, and education."
Image: Department of Health