Issue - meetings

To consider the new structure of the Public Health service within Warwickshire County Council and the range of activity being undertaken in 2024/25.

Shade Agboola, Director for Public Health Warwickshire provided an update on the new structure of the Public Health service and the range of activities being undertaken to deliver on the service’s responsibilities.  The following points were highlighted to the Board.

1. There is a 2 year pilot in place where directorates within Warwickshire County Council have been split into two.  The two new Directorates are Social Care and Health and Children and Young People.

2. Work in relation to Inequalities & Public Health Commissioning is being led by Jane Coates.  Paula Jackson is leading on work in relation to mental health.  There is currently one vacancy for a post working on Health Protection & Health Care but recruitment is currently underway,

3. With regards to the list of prescribed and non-prescribed functions of the service, it was noted that more clarity needed; in particular in relation to the prescribed functions that must be delivered and have grant conditions attached to them.  The Board noted that there is not a budget to be able to invest in every area that we would like to.

4. In relation to the agenda for change payments, the Board noted that this is a very tricky area to achieve a shared understanding of.  The Public Health grant doesn’t cover what may need to be paid out in contracts.  Added complexity came from the redesign of contracts to make the system more consistent and therefore reduce administration.

Following a question from the Chair, it was confirmed that performance targets for the service are both national, and against neighbouring authorities. 

Following a question in relation to the funding of wellbeing coaches that go to GP surgeries, and if it is value for money, it was agreed that this would be looked into after the meeting and details circulated to the Board.

After a further question in relation to which services are most at risk from de-funding.  It was agreed that Dr Agboola would seek confirmation of the details and then be able to share the information with the Board.  It was confirmed that value for money is a key area for review across all non-prescribed projects; and then realigned where needed.  Part of the review will be to consider the impact on residents and if a change in service provision would have a negative impact further down the line.

A follow up question was asked as to who decides of prescribed/non prescribed projects with a concern that drug and alcohol services seem to be non-prescribed.  It was confirmed that grants received come with conditions relating to prescribed/non prescribed projects.  The terminology seems to have change recently and the service is asking more questions.  Drugs and Alcohol is described as non-prescribed, but we have been told, that alongside receiving an additional grant, this service must be provided; it cannot be defunded.  It is not always clear.