Agenda item

The Panel received a report on the level and impact of the impending in year reduction to the Public Health Grant following a Government consultation.

It had been announced that there would be a national in year reduction of 6.2% of the total Public Health Grant which would create a shortfall in Slough of £427k in 2015-16.  This was in addition to the £950k savings already made in public health.  The Government were consulting on how the reduction should be implemented.  The Panel noted Slough’s consultation response and were invited to comment on the areas for reducing costs.  Members asked whether efficiencies could be made by greater joint working with health partners.  It was responded that joint working was already taking place and communication had been made with service providers and partners.  A Member asked whether fines generated from illegal tobacco and alcohol could be used the support public health activity.  Joint work with the Council’s licensing and enforcement activity was recognised as being important, but there were legislative and practical barriers to using fines for public health programmes.

At the conclusion of the discussion, the Panel agreed to note the update and provide any further comments or suggestions directly to the Consultant in Public Health.

Resolved –

(a)  That the level and impact of the reductions to the Public Health Grant 2015/16 be noted.

(b)  That any further comments and ideas from Panel Members on the funding reductions be provided directly to the Consultant in Public Health.