Supporting residents’ health through preventative GP services

In a move to continue residents’ access to a range of preventative healthcare, Tameside Council’s Cabinet has approved close to £2 million of investment over 5 years in a range of services being delivered through GPs and pharmacists.

These include support to stop smoking, access to contraception, weight management programmes, and NHS Health Checks.

These services go beyond the traditional scope of GP and pharmacy care, addressing health inequalities and breaking down barriers to essential healthcare. They provide residents with the tools and support they need to make lasting changes to their health and wellbeing, delivering significant benefits for individuals and the wider community.

The council is focused on commissioning services that represent excellent value for money and offer strong returns on investment.

The funding will continue to support a range of services delivered through local GPs and pharmacies. Health checks and the weight management programme are delivered through GPs with the support of Be Well Tameside. Stop Smoking support is available through GPs and pharmacies, supported by Be Well Tameside. Insertion and removal of contraceptive devices is provided solely by GPs, while emergency contraception is available exclusively through pharmacies.

Preventative healthcare reduces the likelihood of serious illnesses, decreases pressure on hospital services, and improves the overall quality of life for residents in Tameside.

Be Well Tameside continues to provide its range of support services to residents out and about in communities and neighbourhoods, running alongside the initiatives in GP practices and pharmacies.

Cllr Taf Sharif, Tameside Council Executive Member for Population Health and Wellbeing, said: “We are committed to investing in services that give our people the best possible chance to improve their health and wellbeing.  We want our residents to use these services to help make positive changes, which also play a critical role in addressing our health inequalities across Tameside. I’d encourage individuals to contact their GP or pharmacy to take up these life changing services should they be needed. Help is out there. 

By prioritising these services, Tameside Council is ensuring that more individuals have the chance to lead healthier, happier lives.