Hampshire health and wellbeing programmes helping thousands

New figures from Hampshire County Council’s public health team show these initiatives are helping residents stay healthy and active through early intervention and community-based support.

Cllr Stephen Reid, Hampshire County Council’s cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: "Winter can be a difficult time for many people’s health, especially for older residents and those living with long-term conditions.

Two homeless hostels are set to close after Hampshire County Council withdrew funding (Image: Supplied)

"Simple actions really do add up. Every health check, every vaccine, every action to be more active and every step taken to improve wellbeing can make a real difference.

"By working closely with local communities and partners, our Public Health team is helping people look after themselves and stay independent for as long as possible."

A wide range of prevention-first programmes and services are being delivered across the county to help residents take charge of their health before problems become more serious.

Among the support available are stop smoking and vape quitting services, weight management help and NHS Health Checks.

The council also funds more than 125 Steady and Strong exercise classes across Hampshire, which help older adults improve strength and balance to prevent falls and build confidence.

The Be Active campaign encourages adults of all ages to make small changes that support both physical and mental wellbeing.

Mental Wellbeing Hampshire brings together organisations to offer targeted support in areas including mental wellbeing and suicide prevention, domestic abuse, sexual and reproductive health and substance misuse support.

The council’s public health team is also working with planning and transport colleagues to design healthier neighbourhoods with improved access to green spaces and safer routes for walking and cycling.

This work is part of a broader prevention-first approach that supports the county council’s priority to protect the most vulnerable residents while easing pressure on social care and health services.

Conditions such as illness, falls and loneliness are all more common in winter, making proactive health support especially important.

Residents are encouraged to explore the full range of services available through the county council’s public health webpages.