THURROCK residents are being invited to comment on the borough's new health and wellbeing strategy and invited to help shape the its purpose.

Thurrock Health and Wellbeing Board is seeking views on the strategy, which was reviewed by members of the council's cleaner, greener and safer overview and scrutiny committee last week.

The strategy has been designed to level out health inequalities in the borough and help residents to have happier, healthier and longer lives.

A statement from Thurrock council says: "The 2021 to 2026 Health and Wellbeing Strategy doesn't just focus on health services, but also on all the areas of life that make residents healthier and happier – ranging from the quality of local housing to the fear of crime.

"It aims to create a plan to ensure that all aspects of the council's work, and that of its health and voluntary sector partners, coordinates to 'level the playing field' by tackling health inequalities in the borough."

Cabinet member for health and air quality Cllr Allen Mayes says: "This strategy brings the health and well-being agenda to every aspect of life in the borough and looks at how we can collaborate to build better health outcomes, working hand-in-hand with local people.

"As the Prime Minster outlined last week there are health inequalities across the country, indeed this is also true within Thurrock. The current situation is not a level playing field and inequalities in health, well-being and life expectancy exist within the borough.

"Good health is the most important component in all of our lives. This strategy will look to ensure that everyone in the borough has the best opportunity possible to lead healthy and happy lives.

"By working closely with residents we will empower them, and give them the tools they need, to make sure that they have a powerful voice in setting Thurrock's health agenda and accessing the services and help they need to grow and thrive.

"I strongly urge all residents to give their feedback on this draft strategy as it will impact on every single person who lives in Thurrock."

To look at the draft strategy and provide feedback click this link. The consultation runs until Friday, 3 December.