Councillor Simon Young has been appointed as Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Health Inequalities.
This is a new role following the transfer of the Public Health function from the NHS to local authority control in April 2013.
The Leader of Calderdale Council, Cllr Tim Swift said:
“This appointment is vital so that we can deliver our priorities for Calderdale – that all our residents have good health; that our communities are healthy and safe and that we reduce health inequalities across the borough. Simon will be responsible for delivering our public health duties, one of the most important functions the Council provides.
“These services cut across almost every area of the Council – whether it’s making our roads safer, tackling child poverty, encouraging people to take more exercise in our gyms or outdoor spaces or persuading people to reduce their alcohol intake and give up smoking.”
Councillor Simon Young added:
“Our ambition is for the people of Calderdale to have longer and healthier lives than previous generations. This is a real challenge, particularly in such difficult times, however with the right support, education and facilities in place we will make a difference.”
Calderdale Council’s Director of Public Health, Paul Butcher said:
“Cllr Young has taken on this role at a time of change but also at a time of great opportunities. For example in seven months’ time the Tour de France will be racing through Calderdale, inspiring people to take up cycling or just simply to go out and enjoy our beautiful countryside. The legacy of this, and of the Olympics, gives us the chance of a lifetime to encourage everyone, young or old, to make healthy choices, such as taking up a new sport or activity for their own enjoyment and their health. ”