Lowestoft Town Council
Paralleling with our Climate Emergency Declaration, the Town Council has declared a health emergency in recognition of the major ongoing concern of health within our community. Part of this is raising the physical and mental health, and well-being standard so that individuals can benefit from and contribute positively to society. We believe that there is widespread understanding and recognition that a problem exists, the recent pandemic highlighting and exacerbating this, not least owing to the particular vulnerability of the obese and those with mental ill-health.
As part of our initial work on this, our actions will include:
1. Progressing our Sustainability Strategy as there are strong links between health and well-being, climate change and other sustainability issues
2. Supporting turning any Government/NHS health and well-being initiatives into local benefit
3. Planting an orchard tree for every other tree planted (which helps biodiversity and the environment too)
4. Exploring opportunities to enhance and expand our allotments
5. Rapidly progressing the improvement of our parks, open spaces and linked facilities for the enjoyment of all
6. Working with partners and promoting health and well-being initiatives
7. Prioritising support and promotion of transport which is not reliant on fossil fuel and which encourages exercise and independence, including cycling, walking and running
8. Taking account of health and well-being as part of our decisions on planning and development
9. Progressing local economic opportunities, including progressing our own planned recruitment of staff at the earliest opportunity
10. Progressing outdoor shopping and entertainment opportunities, including an outdoor market and cultural/event space in parks
11. Exploring opportunities to enhance the community benefit of our community halls and leisure facilities, including through related sports clubs
12. Providing grants to food banks and other food initiatives and organisations supporting health and well-being, with the emphasis being on the provision of nutritious and healthy food and an active and positive lifestyle
13. Progressing water fountains in our parks to provide a free quality drink for those enjoying the outdoors
14. Encouraging buying and eating local produce
15. Supporting education on food, nutrition, cooking and active lifestyles
16. Supporting the reduction in pollution
