GLEN EIRA CITY COUNCIL MUNICIPAL PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELLBEING PLAN

Transcription

1 GLEN EIRA CITY COUNCIL MUNICIPAL PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELLBEING PLAN

2 Table of Contents Introduction Background to the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan What is a Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan? What are the public health and wellbeing priorities of the Federal Government? What are the public health and wellbeing priorities of the State Government? What are the public health and wellbeing responsibilities of the Glen Eira City Council? Planning approach The Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan development process Planning framework for the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan Municipal scan and consultation Council's role in public health and wellbeing Planning and service provision Partnerships with local health providers Advocacy Key achievements of the Municipal Public Health Plan Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan Objectives and actions References Page 2 of 40

3 Introduction Glen Eira City Co s Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan identifies the health and wellbeing needs of the Glen Eira community o s Co s o s strategies for the next four years. The Plan builds on the work of the previous Plan and meets the legislative responsibilities of the Public Health and Wellbeing Act While the Federal and State Governments have the primary responsibility for the provision and funding of health services, local governments in partnership with local health organisations can make a significant contribution within the realm of their responsibility. Glen Eira City Council has identified the following priorities to focus on over the next four years: promote healthier eating and a physically active community; promote community wellbeing and connectedness; improve mental health; reduce harm from tobacco, alcohol and drugs; deliver public health protection; and deliver public health leadership. The priorities and strategies included in the Plan have been identified through analysis of health and other relevant data from various sources and through consultation with local health agencies and community members. The Plan presents the health planning approach adopted by Council, an environmental scan of the local community and a detailed list of actions that Council will undertake to address the health and wellbeing needs of the Glen Eira community. Page 3 of 40

4 1 Background to the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan While Federal and State Governments have the primary responsibility for the funding and delivery of health services, Local Government is in a unique position to create positive change in the health and wellbeing of local people as it is the closest level of Government to the community it serves. Councils have an important role in leadership, advocacy, regulation, funding and service delivery. Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plans were introduced into Victorian public health legislation in 1988 as part of world-wide recognition of the importance to plan for health and wellbeing at the local level. An important understanding underpinning the legislation was that s a complete state of physical, mental and social wellbeing, and not merely the s of s s o f m y (Co s o of o O s o, 6). Eira City Council was one of the first councils in Victoria to develop and implement a Municipal Public Health Plan. 1.1 What is a Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan? The Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan is a strategic approach to local public health planning. It aims to protect and improve the public health and wellbeing of the Glen Eira community, by informing and integrating with other public health planning processes, and avoiding the duplication of planning effort at the local level. The Public Health and Wellbeing Act 2008 describes the legislative responsibilities of councils to prepare a Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan and the planning processes that need to be included in its development. A plan must be prepared within the period of 12 months after each general election of Council. A Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan must: include an examination of data about health status and health determinants in the municipal district; identify goals and strategies based on available evidence for creating a local community in which people can achieve maximum health and wellbeing; provide for the involvement of people in the local community in the development, implementation and evaluation of the public health and wellbeing plan; specify how Council will work in partnership with the department and other agencies undertaking public health initiatives, projects and programs to accomplish the goals and strategies identified in the Public Health and Wellbeing Plan; be consistent with (i) the Council Plan prepared under section 125 of the Local Government Act 1989; and (ii) the Municipal Strategic Statement prepared under section 12A of the Planning and Environment Act In preparing a Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan, a Council must have regard to the State Public Health and Wellbeing Plan prepared under section 49. Page 4 of 40

5 1.2 What are the public health and wellbeing priorities of the Federal Government? The National Health Priority Areas initiative is collaborative action between Commonwealth, State and Territory Governments, non-government organisations, health experts, clinicians and consumers. The initiative is based on recognising that the strategies for reducing the burden of illness should encompass the continuum of care. That is, from prevention through to treatment, management and maintenance and should be based on appropriate research and data sources. By targeting specific areas that impose high social and financial costs on Australian society and through collaborative action, significant and cost-effective advances can be achieved in improving the health status of Australians. The nine National Health Priority areas that have been selected are: cancer control; cardiovascular health; injury prevention and control; mental health; diabetes mellitus; asthma; arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions; obesity; and dementia. (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2013) In 2008, a National Preventative Health Taskforce was established to provide evidence-based advice to governments and health providers on preventative health programs and strategies, focusing on the burden of chronic disease currently caused by obesity, tobacco and the excessive consumption of alcohol. According to the taskforce:... obesity, tobacco and alcohol feature in the top seven preventable risk factors that influence the burden of disease, with over 7% of the total burden being attributed to each of obesity and smoking, and more than 3% attributed to the harmful effects of alcohol. Along with a range of other risk factors and accounting for their interactions, approximately 32% of Australia s total burden of disease can be attributed to modifiable risk factors (Australian Government Preventive Health Task Force, 2009). The National Preventative Health Taskforce Strategy was seen to be needed for three reasons: To prevent hundreds of thousands of Australians dying prematurely, or falling ill and suffering, between now and To minimise the impending overload of the health and hospital systems. To s o v y fo om v ss of A s s workforce. Page 5 of 40

6 The Strategy has also set the following targets: Halt and reverse the rise in obesity. Reduce the prevalence of daily smoking to 10 per cent or less. Reduce the proportion of Australians who drink at short-term risky/high-risk levels to 14 per cent, and the proportion of Australians who drink at long-term risky/high-risk levels to seven per cent. Contribute to the Close the Gap target for Indigenous people, reducing the life expectancy gap between Indigenous and non-indigenous people. (Australian Government Preventive Health Task Force, 2009) 1.3 What are the public health and wellbeing priorities of the State Government? The goal of the Victorian Public Health and Wellbeing Plan s... to improve the health and wellbeing of all Victorians by engaging communities in prevention, and by strengthening systems for health protection, health promotion and preventive healthcare across al s o s v s of ov m (V o D m of, ). The Victorian Public Health and Wellbeing Plan contains four priority settings as the major focus for action over the life of the Plan: 1. Local communities building on the strong tradition of community participation in Victoria, with a major focus on the role of local councils in Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing planning, as well as the Prevention Community Model developed under the Council of Australian Governments, National Partnership Agreement on Preventive Health. 2. Workplaces building on investment to date in workplace health promotion, and the contribution of agencies such as VicHealth, and programs such as WorkHealth and the National Partnership Agreement on Preventive Health Healthy Workers Initiative. 3. Early childhood and education settings building on the recommendations of the parliamentary inquiry into the potential for schools to become a focus for promoting healthy community living, and new initiatives under the National Partnership Agreement on Preventive Health Healthy Children Initiative. 4. Health services o V o s s o omm y sys m, s opportunities for health promotion across the continuum of care, and the wider contribution of health services beyond direct service delivery such as through health promoting hospital initiatives. Page 6 of 40

7 1.4 What are the public health and wellbeing responsibilities of the Glen Eira City Council? Local Government plays an important role in controlling public health threats by enforcing up-to-date public health standards and through fulfilling its statutory obligations such as those contained in the Victorian Health, Food and Environment Protection Acts, associated regulations and standards. State and Federal Governments are responsible for the provision of services to treat these chronic and acute illnesses. Local Government can assist in addressing these health needs by assisting other local health organisations to implement and promote strategies that meet the o omm y s s. The public health priorities of Council are: 1. statutory public health functions of Council; 2. initiatives that support improved rates of compliance with public health standards and legislation; and 3. to partner with local health organisations to improve wellbeing and address chronic health needs of the local community. 1. Statutory public health functions of Council Food safety The Food Act 1984 requires Council to register and inspect food premises annually, investigate complaints relating to food safety and undertake food sampling to monitor the safety of food sold within the municipality. In 2012 public health: conducted 1,702 inspections of food businesses; obtained 379 samples from food businesses; and investigated 149 food safety related complaints. Immunisation The Public Health and Wellbeing Act 2008 requires Council to co-ordinate and provide immunisation services to children living or being educated within the municipal district. In 2012 : 5,643 early years immunisations were conducted; and 2,917 school immunisations were completed. Tobacco control The Tobacco Act 1987 requires Council to enforce tobacco related laws regarding sale of cigarettes to minors, tobacco displays, advertising, smoke free areas and smoke free areas such as food establishments. In 2012, public health investigated nine tobacco complaints relating to matters such as tobacco sales to minors, smoke free workplaces and smoke free dining. Page 7 of 40

8 Control of infectious disease The Public Health and Wellbeing Act 2008 requires Council to register and inspect all: hairdressers, beauty therapists, tattooists, colonic irrigation, businesses performing body piercing and public swimming and spa pools. In 2012 Public Health: conducted 214 inspections of registered public health and wellbeing businesses such as hairdressers, beauty therapists, tattooists and body piercing premises; investigated seven complaints relating to hairdressers and beauty therapist businesses; conducted 66 inspections of public swimming and spa pools; and obtained 107 water samples from public swimming and spa pools. Prescribed accommodation The Public Health and Wellbeing Act 2008 requires Council to register and inspect all accommodation premises where six or more residents are living. Rooming or boarding houses must also be registered with Council under the provisions of the Act where four or more residents are living. Council must inspect these premises to ensure compliance with public health standards contained in the Public Health and Wellbeing Regulations In 2012 Public Health: conducted 35 inspections of registered prescribed accommodation businesses; and investigated 39 complaints relating to the suspected operation of illegal prescribed accommodation businesses. Public health nuisances The Public Health and Wellbeing Act 2008 requires Council to investigate all complaints that are liable to impact upon the health of the community. Council investigates approximately 200 complaints each year concerning safe asbestos removal, sewage, odour and residential noise. Public health emergencies The Emergency Management Act 1986 requires Council to respond to supress public health emergencies and to assist community recovery after an emergency event. Council is also required to develop and implement a Pandemic Flu Plan to control disease outbreaks and a Heatwave Plan to protect the community during extreme weather conditions. Page 8 of 40

9 2. Initiatives that support improved rates of compliance with public health standards and legislation. Five-Star Safe Food program Co s Five-Star Safe Food program provides incentives for high performing businesses that actively manage food safety risks and continuously improve practices to make food production safer, premises cleaner and improve staff food handling practises. Poor performing b s ss s o o s o o Co s o v strategies are subject to sanctions to ensure public safety is not compromised. Incentives for Five-Star Food businesses include: Five-Star Food safety certificates reduced Council registration fees and free publicity in the Council produced Glen Eira Safe Food Guide. In 2012 Public Health: conducted 648 Five-Star Food safety assessments; and awarded 215 food businesses with a Five-Star rating. Education about Victorian tobacco laws Council delivers education about Victorian tobacco laws to food proprietors, tobacco retailers, tobacconists and licensed premises. These services are delivered in accordance with the Department of Human Services funding agreements administered by the Municipal Association of Victoria. In 2012 Public Health conducted 24 educational visits to tobacco retailers, specialist tobacconists and food premises (smoke free dining). Nutrition Council's Taste 4 Health nutrition program educates local food establishments on how to improve the nutritional value of the food they serve. Nutrition criteria for the program were developed in partnership with dieticians from the International Diabetes Institute, Caulfield Community Health Service and Bentleigh-B ys Comm y. Co s Taste 4 Health Kids program encourages food establishments to implement healthy initiatives to reduce fat, salt and refined sugar and increase dietary fibre in children's menu choices. In 2012 Public Health conducted 50 nutrition inspections of food businesses in relation to Co s Taste 4 Health and Taste 4 Health Kids programs. Immunisation Council actively markets and promotes the importance of children and adults maintaining their immunisation status in accordance with the Australian Standard Vaccination Schedule. If enough people in the community are immunised, the general level of immunity is increased and the spread of infection is minimised. Council provides community immunisation each month, a secondary school vaccination program, opportunistic immunisation at Maternal and Child Health Centres and delivers special immunisation sessions for four-year-old children that include free show bags, face, oo s s s. Page 9 of 40

10 3. Partner with local health organisations to improve wellbeing and address chronic health needs of the local community. Council partners with local hospitals, community health centres and other local service providers to implement initiatives and deliver community education in relation to mental health, cardiovascular health, cancer control, diabetes, obesity, dementia and injury prevention. Council also actively participates in national, state and local health and wellbeing campaigns that promote healthy lifestyles such as active living and healthy eating. Council also promotes community awareness in relation to cancer screening, gambling awareness, sun smart, White Ribbon Day (Stop Violence Against Women), Dementia Awareness Week and Pink Ribbon Day (breast cancer awareness). Page 10 of 40

11 2 Planning approach The organisational planning context for this Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan can be fo Co s Community Plan. The Community Plan sets out the strategic direction of Council. The Plan also guides Council's decision-making, resource allocation and organisational focus, and details the priorities that Council will pursue to meet the needs of the Glen Eira community. 2.1 The Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan development process The aim of the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan is to develop an ongoing strategic public health planning process to identify and address current and emerging public health issues and concerns. The development process for the Plan consisted of six major phases as depicted below. Pre-Planning Consider legislative requirements, state and federal health priorities & processes Identify key strategic planning objectives (Community Plan & Municipal Strategic Statement) Refer Sections 1.1, 1.2 and 1.3 Municipal scan Data collection and analysis to: develop preliminary understanding of community health and wellbeing status and determinants identify the context of other local, state and national health policy & issues Refer to Section 2.3 Key Achievements & Health Priorities Achievements identified and goals and strategies developed to address areas requiring Change as identified in the municipal scan and consultation. Refer to Sections 3.3 and 4.1 Consultation The process included: a forum with key organisations which influence health and wellbeing an online survey and community forum analysis of previous consultation carried out for other Council plans Refer to Section 2.3 Actions Development of actions to address identified areas, community health needs and the legislative obligations of Council Refer to Section 4.2 Implementation & Review The Plan and its priorities will be reviewed annually to ensure implementation in accordance with the Action Plan and to identify changing needs and issues Page 11 of 40

12 2.2 Planning framework for the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan The Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan has a number of legislative, policy and planning links. Importantly, there are several planning and policy links across Council that influence the development and content of the Plan and, in turn, are influenced by the Plan. The diagram below outlines these legislative, policy and planning links which inform the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan. Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan planning and legislation links Ageing Strategy Community Plan Municipal Early Years Plan Disability Action Plan Public Health and Wellbeing Act 2008 Environmental Sustainability Strategy Sustainable Transport Strategy Road Safety Strategy Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan Victorian Public Health and Wellbeing Plan Climate Change Act 2010 Bicycle Strategy Municipal Strategic Statement Municipal Emergency Management Plan 2.3 Municipal scan and consultation Municipal scan During the municipal scan phase, a variety of the standard measures often used by government and researchers to measure health and illness in a population were examined and the resulting implications for the development of this Plan assessed. Information used includes: Australian Bureau of Statistics 2011 Census data; The Community Indicators Victoria 2013 survey data; Victorian Population Health Survey 2008; Department of Health Statistical Profile: Glen Eira 2013; and Victorian Health Information Surveillance System data. Page 12 of 40

13 Glen Eira demographics/who are we? According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics Census of Population and Housing 2011, there are 137,566 residents living within Glen Eira. This figure is predicted to increase to 156,334 by 2031 according to the future population predictions developed by the Department of Planning and Community Development. The population is ageing, with 14 per cent of the population expected to be aged over 70 by There will also be an increase in the number of lone households, with around one third of all households expected to be occupied by people living alone (Department of Planning and Community Development, 2012). There is a high level of cultural diversity, with 28.3 per cent of Glen Eira residents born in a non-english speaking country, and 30.7 per cent speaking a language other than English at home. The most common overseas country of birth is India (3.8 per cent), and most commonly spoken languages other than English are Greek (4.5 per cent), Russian (3.8 per cent) and Mandarin (3.3 per cent) (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2013). Median household incomes are above average, and levels of educational attainment are high, with performance of Year Nine students among the highest in the state, a low percentage of persons without Year 12, and high percentages of persons with a higher education qualification (Department of Health, 2013a). The tables below highlight a range of statistics used as indicators for health and their implications for the development of this plan. Illness and disease Planning implications Avoidable mortality in Glen Eira Top 5 causes Total deaths Collectively, cancers contribute significantly 1. Ischemic heart disease 147 to the avoidable deaths in Glen Eira. Early 2. Lung cancer 130 detection can reduce the severity of 3. Colorectal cancer 70 cancers. Therefore, cancer screening 4. Suicide 54 promotion could be used to reduce 5. Breast cancer 54 mortality rates. Avoidable hospitalisations in Glen Eira 2011 Top 5 causes Hospital admissions Poor diet, smoking, alcohol consumption and low levels of physical activity 1. Diabetes complications 1,071 contribute to many of the top causes of 2. Kidney/urinary tract inflammation 449 avoidable hospitalisations in Glen Eira. 3. Dental conditions Congestive cardiac failure Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease 315 Chronic disease in Glen Eira Chronic disease % of population Chronic diseases are serious health issues that may require ongoing medication for life. However, most chronic diseases are preventable for most people through healthy lifestyle choices. Respiratory system disease 16.2% Circulatory system disease 16.2% Hypertensive diseases 8.8% High cholesterol 5.4% Type 2 diabetes 4.1% An emphasis on promoting healthy lifestyles in this Plan can decrease the impact of chronic disease on the community. Page 13 of 40

14 Source: Department of Health (2012) Victorian Health Information Surveillance System Public Health Information Development Unit 2011 E P P 2017 Lifestyle behaviours Health risk factor Glen Eira Victoria Planning implications Persons who are obese or overweight 43.7% 48.6% - Males 54.7% 57.2% - Females 33.4% 40.3% Persons aged 18 plus who are current smokers - Males - Females Persons at risk of shortterm harm from alcohol consumption Persons who purchased alcohol in the past seven days Persons who do not meet fruit and vegetable guidelines - Males - Females Persons who do not meet physical activity guidelines - Males - Females Gaming machine losses per head of adult population Drug usage and possession offences per 1,000 population 14.9% 19.1% 18.3% 21.4% 11.5% 16.9% 6.9% 10.2% 38.4% 36.3% 47.0% 38.1% 57.6% 27.7% 48.2% 41.9% 54.8% 27.4% 26.2% 27.5% 29.6% 27.2% $669 $ Source: Department of Health (2013a) Statistical Profile: Glen Eira Obesity is a major risk factor in many of the diseases which affect Glen Eira residents such as heart disease, cancer, stroke and respiratory diseases. The prevalence of tobacco smoking among adults in Victoria has been steadily declining for many years. This continuing fall has the potential to contribute to a reduction in chronic disease over time. Therefore, programs should focus on continuing to decrease smoking rates. Glen Eira has a lower percentage of people at risk of short-term harm from alcohol consumption than Victoria however, it is of concern that over a third of adults purchased alcohol in the past seven days and half (50.4 per cent) of 15 to 17-year-olds consumed alcohol in the previous month. This emphasises the need to promote safe consumption of alcohol, particularly to young people. Almost a third of the Glen Eira population does not meet the Federal ov m s o ys activity guidelines. Physical activity, as well as having important health and social benefits, plays a vital role in the prevention of mortality and morbidity from cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, some forms of cancer and morbidity from some injuries and mental health conditions. Therefore, encouraging and providing opportunities to be physically active will have an impact on a range of health conditions. Protective health behaviours Health risk factors Glen Eira Victoria Planning implications Infants fully breastfed at three months Children fully immunised 64.1% 92.4% 51.8% 93.4% Glen Eira rates positively on most health status indicators however, screening participation rates are low, particularly bowel cancer and breast at months Breast cancer screening 54.2% 54.7% cancer screening participation which is below average. participation Cervical cancer screening 66.1% 60.7% Promotional methods could be used to boost participation Bowel cancer screening 33.2% 37.1% immunisation and screening rates in order to prevent or early diagnose treatable diseases. participation Source: Department of Health Statistical Profile: Glen Eira, 2013 Indicators of community strength Health risk factor Glen Eira Victoria Planning implications Community acceptance of 93.1% 89.4% There are relatively high levels of community diverse cultures involvement in Glen Eira. This can be enhanced Feel safe walking alone 98.3% 97% through a range of community building programs. Page 14 of 40

15 during the day Feel safe on street alone 75.3% 70.3% after dark Participation in arts and 79.1% 63.6% cultural activities Participation in citizen 46.9% 50.5% engagement in last year Source: Community Indicators Victoria, 2013 Strengthening community connections will also help to maintain the existing high perceptions of safety in Glen Eira. Indicators of mental health and wellbeing Health risk factor Glen Eira Victoria Planning implications Persons reporting high to very high degree of psychological distress Feeling part of the 73.7% 72.3% community Satisfaction with their 78.3% 77.5% lives Source: Community Indicators Victoria, 2013 Consultation 9.3% 11.4% Levels of psychological stress in Glen Eira are slightly lower than the state average. Feeling part of the community and life satisfaction measures are both linked to mental wellbeing. Glen Eira has rates similar to the state average on these measures. The consultation process was informed by data collected in the municipal scan phase and included: an online survey and quick poll; two community forums and an additional forum for local service providers including health services, disability services and emergency services; and analysis of previous consultation undertaken in the development of other Council plans. Key themes to emerge from this consultation process include: Physical activity Those consulted identified the importance of physical activity for both physical health and social interaction. They emphasised the need for community members of all age groups to be able to access local affordable facilities, open spaces and sporting grounds. Feeling part of the community Social isolation was viewed as a major factor leading to poor health and wellbeing. Having a strong sense of community and the opportunities to attend community events were seen as protective factors. Having a place to go or group to be involved with was seen as important. Healthy ageing The ageing population of Glen Eira was recognised with activities that allow older residents to stay active in the community and remain in their homes for as long as possible was identified as a priority. Community safety During consultations it was identified that feeling safe to go out at night would lead to more opportunities for physical activity and social activities which were both key priority areas for health. Page 15 of 40

16 Access to services Having access to services and knowing how and where to access them was a recurring theme and accepted as being important in achieving positive health and wellbeing. Summary and key considerations The Glen Eira community enjoys a comparatively high level of health and wellbeing. Even so, residents are not immune to lifestyle related risks such as obesity, insufficient exercise, poor nutrition, smoking and alcohol. Along with stress, high cholesterol and high blood pressure, these risk factors contribute significantly to the burden of disease in Glen Eira and provide opportunities for future health gain through early prevention and appropriate management of these risk factors (Department of Health, 2013a). The table below shows the relationship between chronic disease and selected lifestyle risk factors. Chronic disease or condition Coronary heart disease Cerebrovascular disease Colorectal cancer Type 2 diabetes Chronic kidney disease Osteoarthritis Osteoporosis Poor diet Physical inactivity Tobacco smoking Excess alcohol use Excess weight Source: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2008 The ageing population in our community presents health challenges associated with a longer life expectancy. We can expect an increase in people living with chronic diseases and disabilities and it will result in a higher demand for health services. It will be important for Glen Eira to focus on healthy ageing to enable residents to contribute to the community and remain in their homes for as long as possible. In addition, the key considerations for the Plan will be: prevention and early intervention as key strategies to reduce lifestyle related diseases; promotion of screening to minimise preventable cancer deaths; immunisation to minimise death and illness from preventable diseases; monitoring health conditions, disease notification and adoption of healthy behaviours throughout the life of the Plan in order to respond to emerging issues; development of partnerships with external health agencies and services to enable delivery of programs promoting positive health and wellbeing; and ongoing consultation and involvement with the community to understand their needs and ensure strategies respond appropriately. We are fortunate that Glen Eira residents enjoy a health status above the state average. However, risk factors for our community are expected to increase with an ageing population. The provision of information, services and programs and the continued provision of a safe environment enables residents to make healthy lifestyle decisions ensuring a healthy future for Glen Eira. Page 16 of 40

17 3 Council's role in public health and wellbeing 3.1 Planning and service provision Council is a key player in a network of local and regional public health and wellbeing planners and service providers and it works in partnership with the State Government and other selected agencies and providers, undertaking public health initiatives, projects and programs to accomplish the goals and aims of the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan. Council does this by: participating in local health strategy planning and development; participating in service provider-led consultation; sharing health data information; supporting local health initiatives; participating in Inner South East Partnership in Community and Health meetings and initiatives; participating in Bayside Medicare Local meetings and initiatives; and consultation with the Department of Health (central and regional offices) on health related issues. Local and regional health providers and networks are integral in promoting and enhancing health and wellbeing in Glen Eira. Council also has a range of functions determined by the Public Health and Wellbeing Act 2008 which are relevant to the protection, improvement and promotion of public health and wellbeing of the Glen Eira community. Specifically, these responsibilities are: Creating an environment which supports the health of members of the local community and strengthens the capacity of the community and individuals to achieve better health. Initiating, supporting and managing public health planning processes at the local level. Implementing public health initiatives within the municipal district. Developing and enforcing public health standards and intervening if the health of people within the municipal district is affected. Supporting local agencies whose work has an impact on health and wellbeing in the local community. Co-ordinating and providing immunisation services to children living or being educated within the municipal district. Ensuring that the municipal district is maintained in a clean and sanitary condition. The responsibilities are actioned by Council through the delivery of health protection and innovative health promotion programs addressing areas of food safety, tobacco control, infectious disease management, immunisation and regulation of businesses that pose a risk to public health. Page 17 of 40

18 3.2 Partnerships with local health providers Glen Eira City Council will work in partnership with a range of local health providers and services across the municipality to ensure effective and efficient health and wellbeing outcomes for the Glen Eira community. These partnerships include: Department of Health Council is represented on the Department of Health Southern Region Health Network. Council works in partnership with the Department of Health through this network to undertake public health initiatives, projects and programs to accomplish the goals and strategies identified in the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan. Inner South East Partnership in Community Health (ISEPICH) T s s s o o ISEPIC s Ex v Comm v working groups, to ensure priorities are established between acute and community health care service providers to plan and co-ordinate health services within the cities of Glen Eira, Stonnington and Port Phillip. Bayside Medicare Local The partnership with Bayside Medicare Local establishes and maintains strong links with a o of m y ov s, o os wo ks o P s. T partnership provides an opportunity for better targeting of services and establishing formal and informal links with the acute and aged care sectors. Community health services Council will work alongside Bentleigh Bayside Community Health Service and Caulfield Community Health Service in undertaking the joint initiatives highlighted through the Comm y s I P omo o Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan. The partnership will bring together a diversity of skills and resources for more effective health planning outcomes for the community. Glen Eira City Council is committed to continue working in partnership with a range of government, non-government and community organisations. To ensure effective and efficient health planning initiatives and projects, Glen Eira City Council recognises it will need to identify and seek new partnerships, as well as maintain its existing relationship with stakeholders. Page 18 of 40

19 3.3 Advocacy Council takes its responsibility as an advocate for the Glen Eira community seriously. Through its varied relationships with other Governments, community organisations and interest groups, Council officers give voice to local opinions, communica Co s os o o issues, and initiate action in a deliberate attempt to influence outcomes. Advocacy is particularly important in the health arena for Council because our direct involvement in health service delivery is small and focused on prevention efforts. For this reason, our advocacy efforts are directed through our partners to improve community connections and mental health, health promotion and healthy lifestyles, healthy environments and protection, and emergency response. 3.4 Key achievements of the Municipal Public Health Plan Council has already achieved significant progress in providing health and wellbeing initiatives for the Glen Eira community through the previous Municipal Public Health Plan Food safety From , 1,540 food businesses were assessed and 89 per cent complied with the Australian food safety standards. From , Co s environmental health officers undertook 3,510 food safety assessments of local food businesses to ensure that food safety risks were effectively managed. Five-Star Safe Food Program In 2012, 56.6 per cent of Class 1 Food Businesses received a Five-Star Food safety rating. The Five Star Safe Food Program provides incentives for high performing businesses that actively manage food safety risks and continuously improve practices to make food production safer, food businesses cleaner, improve staff education and implement best practice. Co s Five-Star Safe Food Program was further enhanced with the introduction of a risk based approach to the way food safety assessments are conducted. This enhancement provides Council with greater flexibility to identify and manage the risks posed by each food premises. Healthy ageing Council offers residents over 50 years-of-age the opportunity to participate in exercise classes and walking groups that are designed to improve balance, encourage confidence and to build a better sense of wellbeing. The Explorers Program offers a wide range of excursions (scenic drives, luncheons, picnics, and movies) designed to encourage confidence and an opportunity to make new friends. Page 19 of 40

20 An average of 230 socially isolated older people attend physical activity and social connection programs each year. Disability From , 72 local food businesses improved disability access by meeting disability access criteria. Co s Access 4 All Program is designed to reward those food businesses that provide accessible initiatives for people of all-abilities. By making minor structural changes and improving customer awareness and service needs, food businesses are rewarded not only with an increase in trade, but are also provided with an Access 4 All Award to promote the accessibility of their food business. Health promotion programs From , more than 1,000 residents attended health promotion programs, gaining valuable knowledge and skills in improving their own healthy behaviours and lifestyles. Popular events included Maintain Your Brain Alzhe m s v o s ss o s, T v Sm fo o residents, food insecurity information sessions, Responsible Service of Alcohol forums and car seat restraint checks. Community safety Twelve initiatives were provided in to address the issue of community safety. Workshops and educational programs included safe living programs, Community Safety Month events, falls prevention sessions and safety around schools campaigns. Nutrition From , 206 food businesses developed healthy menu items to improve the nutritional value of food sold within the municipality. The Taste 4 Health and Taste 4 Health Kids program educates businesses on how to improve the nutritional value of the food they serve. The criteria were developed in partnership with dieticians from the Bentleigh-Bayside Community Health Centre. Local food businesses are encouraged to make small changes to their menu items to provide food that is low in salt, sugar and fat and high in dietary fibre while maintaining taste and quality. Infectious diseases prevention, surveillance and control From , 948 inspections of personal care businesses that pose a potential risk to public health (hairdressers, beauty therapy and skin penetration premises) were assessed against state public health standards. From , 61 gastrointestinal and infectious disease outbreaks were investigated and controlled by Council within childcare and aged care facilities. Council annually registers all public health and wellbeing businesses under the provisions of the Public Health and Wellbeing Act Public health and wellbeing businesses include hairdressing, beauty therapy, skin penetration (ear piercing), tattooing and colonic irrigation premises. Environmental health officers inspect these businesses to ensure that they maintain hygiene and safety standards. Page 20 of 40

21 Immunisation More than 28,000 vaccinations were administered from More than 90 per cent of children are up-to-date with vaccinations meeting national immunisation targets. Council promotes and encourages the immunisation of children and adults through its diverse range of immunisation sessions; including Maternal and Child Health sessions, community sessions, a special four-year-old session, staff flu immunisation sessions and the Year 7 Gardasil vaccine program. Water sampling From , 368 water samples were taken from public swimming pools and spa pools and 89 per cent complied with Water Quality Standards. Council regularly monitors the water quality at all public swimming pools and spas within the municipality. Swimming pool and spa water samples are collected for chemical and microbiological analysis to ensure the facilities are safe for public use. Page 21 of 40

22 4 Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan Glen Eira City Council has identified the following public health and wellbeing priorities for the next four years. These priorities will ensure Council complies with its legislative responsibilities in line with the Community Plan and other key Council plans and strategies. 1. Promote a healthier eating and physically active community Council will undertake strategies to inform and educate residents regarding healthy eating and physical activity. This is a key priority area for Council as poor diet and low levels of physical activity contribute to many of the top causes of ill health and avoidable hospitalisations. A range of health promotion projects, combined with partnerships that support the community to make healthy lifestyle choices and advocacy is most likely to make a difference to the Glen Eira community. 2. Promote community wellbeing and connectedness In order to achieve this priority, Council will undertake community consultation, provide a range of events, festivals and community celebrations, as well as encourage and promote volunteering. Fostering participation and a sense of community builds a strong and resilient community and contributes to wellbeing. Council will provide community grants to support local community groups to meet identified community needs. 3. Improve mental health Creating a socially inclusive community where people feel valued, respected and can live with dignity contribute to reducing the impact and may prevent the onset of mental health issues. Council will focus activity on improving social, physical and economic environments. Age related mental health issues are likely to increase in Glen Eira; preventative mental health activities such as those associated with increasing connectedness will assist in addressing these mental health issues. Activities will include strengthening understanding in the community about mental health, developing a cohesive, focused and co-ordinated effort in close collaboration with key partners and supporting individual efforts to achieve and maintain mental health. 4. Reduce harm from tobacco, alcohol and drugs Strategies to inform and educate residents regarding tobacco, alcohol misuse and drugs will assist state and federal governments in advancing population health. The focus on advocacy and partnership is particularly important in this priority area as many of the controls for tobacco, alcohol and drugs are driven by law. Council has a role in monitoring and enforcement as well as health promotion. 5. Deliver public health protection Council will continue to enforce up-to-date public health standards and will provide public health intervention programs to improve community health. These services include immunisation programs, food safety, tobacco control, environmental health and water quality initiatives. Council will continue to run programs to protect the health and wellbeing of young children and frail older adults. Page 22 of 40

23 6. Deliver initiatives in public health leadership Glen Eira will continue to be a leader in public health initiatives with innovations such as the Five-Star Food premise certification and vaccination sessions for four-year-olds demonstrating our strong public health commitment. Council will focus leadership activity that promotes safe, stable and prevention focussed activities and programs that educate, provide incentives for improvement, protect vulnerable community members and target health issues in Glen Eira. Page 23 of 40

24 4.1 Objectives and actions Promote healthy eating and a physically active community What do we know? Unhealthy eating and low fruit and vegetable consumption contribute to high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol and high rates of obesity. These risk factors cause up to 16 per cent of the burden of disease in Australia (VicHealth, 2012). Increased levels of physical activity help to decrease obesity which is a major risk factor in many of the diseases which effect Glen Eira residents such as heart disease, cancer, stroke and respiratory diseases. Physical activity also benefits mental health and wellbeing and increases opportunities for people to socialise (VicHealth, 2012). Why is it important to health and wellbeing in Glen Eira? Lifestyle related chronic disease is responsible for most of the burden of disease in Glen Eira. Physical inactivity and obesity are recognised as having significant links to a range of chronic diseases. Almost a third of the Glen Eira population does not meet the National Physical Activity Guidelines (Department of Health, 2013a). Almost half of the Glen Eira population does not meet the recommended daily intake of fruit or vegetables (Department of Health, 2013a). Community members said: P ys v y w o s q y of life and good health outcomes for an ageing population. A ss o s f, o oo x s s k ks, y s w m k m x s mo. Goal 1. Promote healthier eating and a physically active community Objectives Action Measure Timeframe 1.1 Promote healthy behaviours and support the community to make healthy lifestyle choices. Identify state and/or national health priority campaigns that have relevance for the local community and inform the community through promotion and information sessions. Health food literacy promoted in Glen Eira News. 2013/14 Support and encourage participation of early childhood services and schools in the Victorian Prevention and Health Promotion Achievement Program, particularly with achievements of the healthy eating and oral health benchmarks. Promote the program and suggest ideas for meeting healthy eating and oral health benchmarks in newsletters. Quarterly Page 24 of 40

25 Goal 1. Promote healthier eating and a physically active community Objectives Action Measure Timeframe 1.2 Foster joint planning and action to improve Develop an annual program of health promotion seminars and Run health promotion projects targeting: healthy eating and physical activity. events in partnership with the Department of Health, ISEPICH, Bayside Medicare Local and community health centres. - healthy eating; and - physical activity. 2013/ / Promote physical activity initiatives to support the community in leading healthy and active lifestyles. Promote cycling as an alternative mode of transport. P omo Co s T v Sm Map to residents to encourage walking and cycling in the municipality. Two cycling articles promoted in Glen Eira news. TravelSmart Maps promoted to residents through articles in the Glen Eira News and v o Co s website. 2013/ / /15 Promote the National Physical Activity Guidelines and raise awareness of the importance of physical activity to all residents. National Physical Activity Guidelines posted on Co s w s. December Improve the supply of and access to a variety of safe and nutritious food in the community. Implement nutrition program to eligible local food businesses and award those that offer healthy food choices to the public. Eligible businesses assessed on healthy menu criteria. E s Co s D v s program provides nutritious food choices for all older persons participating in the service. The nutritious food value of the Delivered Meals program audited with assistance from dietician. Twice each year 1.5 Promote activity and connect socially isolated older adults with their community. Deliver outings and exercise classes to socially isolated senior citizens. Two hundred socially isolated residents attend programs each year. 1.6 Increase capacity of the community to be active by improving personal safety and preventing injury. Promote road safety information to improve awareness around pedestrian and driver safety. Road safety articles promoted in Glen Eira News. 2016/ /17 Advocacy Council will advocate to the State and Federal Governments to address the following needs of residents and ratepayers: Increased funding for community care meals services. Advocate with health partners to obtain funding for national health priority campaigns of relevance to the community. Page 25 of 40