The Cheshire and Merseyside (C&M) Directors of Public Health (DsPH) currently meet weekly. The key messages from the 18th March meeting are as follows:
- UKHSA Covid report – Cases are increasing with the 30-49 age bracket most affected. Colleagues are planning surveillance systems from 1st April and further guidance is expected. DsPH raised questions over community testing in the future and clarity over a ‘step up’ plan if needed, which will be escalated.
- Visit by Chief Medical Officer – DsPH were delighted to hear that Professor Chris Whitty will attend the DsPH call next week. A presentation on the DsPH collaborative approach is being planned along with time for a discussion on future working and maintaining a fit for purpose workforce.
- Ukraine/Russia conflict – DsPH discussed ensuring an effective local response and highlighted critical issues such as safe guarding and treating PTSD.
- Good news and gratitude
- Thanks to all Local Authorities and partners as the Champs Collaborative has been shortlisted this week for the LGC Partnership award. Congratulations also to Local Authorities who have also been shortlisted in the LGC awards. Good luck in the next stage of judges’ presentations.
- DsPH wished Alan Higgins of OHID the best of luck and thanked him for his support as he leaves his role this week.