Issue - meetings

The Board considered the report of the Cabinet Member for Adults and Heath outlining delivery of the Tobacco, Alcohol and Drug Strategy

Charlotte Matthews, Public Health Consultant, Colin McAllister Senior Public Health Practitioner and Helen Dougan Senior Public Health Practitioner were in attendance and, with the consent of the Chair, addressed the meeting. Outlining the progress set out in the report. 

RESOLVED that

1.  The Board would continue to note the significant harm that tobacco, alcohol and drugs cause in Southampton and notes the progress made in implementing the Southampton Tobacco Alcohol and Drug Strategy, 2023-28.

2.  The Board would continue to actively champion the implementation of the strategy, including:

· All organisations use their impact as Anchor Institutions, to prevent and reduce harm from tobacco, alcohol and drugs, including vaping when used other than by adults as a tool to stop smoking. This includes visible leadership, such as a Smokefree commitment, and a “Health in all policies” approach.

· the non-judgemental language: of drug and alcohol use or harm, rather than “misuse”; and of tobacco dependency and treatment, particularly in a health care context.

· evidence-informed policy

3.  Board members noted that they could contact Public Health if they would like further advice or support for their strategic or operational work on tobacco, alcohol, drugs and/or vaping.