Suffolk aims to become healthiest county

LEADING figures from across Suffolk were at the launch of a ground breaking 20-year plan to make the county the healthiest in the country by 2028.

Individuals from the public and private sector gathered at Trinity Park in Ipswich to hear more about the pioneering initiative.

Healthy Ambitions Suffolk - thought to be the first scheme of its kind in the country - aims to get more people active in a bid to tackle obesity, reduce cancer and heart disease deaths and put an end to inequalities that can mean a difference of as much as 12 years life expectancy in different parts of the county.

Yesterday's launch - which included a performance by youngsters from Dance East and music from Farlingaye High School - was attended by businesses, voluntary groups, borough, district and county councillors and members of the primary care trust (PCT).

Speaking at yesterday's launch Dr Peter Bradley, director of public health for the PCT and Suffolk County Council, said: “On the 5th of November we traditionally celebrate a rather revolutionary figure in Guy Fawkes and today I want to start a revolution in Suffolk - a revolution that's going to have a lasting effect on the fabric of our community.”

A number of people were asked to show their support by signing a “pledges” wall including Ipswich Borough Council chief executive James Hehir; Rachel Jackson from the Port of Felixstowe; hotelier, food broadcaster and writer, Ruth Watson; Jackie Martin from Suffolk Family Carers and Ipswich Town chairman David Sheepshanks.

Mr Sheepshanks said: “I think its absolutely gobsmacking that in this county we have got people who live a difference of 12.3 years longer than others depending on where they live and where they were brought up. I am sure every one of us is Suffolk and proud but we are not proud of that.”

A dedicated website - www.healthyambitionssuffolk.nhs.uk - will be up and running from January 1.