The Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing introduced the report which provided an update on the Active Lives Framework 2017 – 2022 (ALF) and set-out proposals for the draft Healthy & Active Lives Framework 2022 – 2027 (HALF) to enable a 8-week consultation.  She explained that the Council were focusing more on healthy and active rather than pure sports to ensure inclusivity.  She spoke about the health inequalities in Swale and considered a holistic approach was needed.  The Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing stated that obesity was a problem in Swale and in 60% of the Covid-19 deaths obesity was a factor.  She said that the Council must do everything it could to get people healthier and more active.

In response to a query from a Member, the Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing confirmed that case studies would be included in the final document.

Members made the following comments:

·         Emphasis on health and active lives was very welcome;

·         could active travel be included as walking should be encouraged as much as possible?;

·         sport was so competitive that some people often felt excluded; and

·         there were lots of walks within Swale and people should be encouraged to look at the Council’s website for inspiration.

Resolved:

(1)      That the draft Healthy and Active in Swale Framework 2022 – 2027 be approved to enable an 8-week consultation period.