A NEW vision for improving health and wellbeing across Essex has been adopted.

The Essex Joint Health and Wellbeing Strategy (2026–2029) is now live. It was officially launched by the Essex Health and Wellbeing Board in March.

The development of the strategy has been a joint effort between Essex County Council and:

• the NHS
• other health partners
• local and county councils
• criminal justice partners
• residents via a consultation.

The strategy sets out a shared vision for health partners. It highlights the key priorities needed to help people in Essex live healthier, happier lives.

It looks beyond healthcare to the wider factors that influence health. This includes jobs, housing, education, transport and the environment.

The strategy sets out shared priorities for partners across Essex as below. It outlines how partners will work together to tackle health inequalities and improve wellbeing.

• Improving life chances for children and young people. Keeping people happy, safe and free from the effects of poverty.
• Helping more people into and stay in work. Helping people find jobs, stay employed and build the skills they need for future opportunities.
• Building healthy, resilient and connected communities. Making places healthy, helping communities connect and making support easy to access.
• Creating opportunities to improve health and reduce the impact of poor health. This will be achieved by promoting healthy lifestyles. Helping older people stay healthy and well is also key, as is reducing substance misuse and supporting mental wellbeing.

Sarah Muckle, Director of Wellbeing, Public Health and Communities said: “Our new Health and Wellbeing Strategy focusses on improving health and wellbeing for residents across our county.

“By working together with our partners and addressing issues like housing, education and jobs, we can build a healthier and stronger Essex for the future.”