North East of England Health Summit 2003

Executive Summary
Holding an annual Health Summit is one way in which the wide range of agencies concerned with health issues can come together to exchange ideas, and take stock of progress across the region. This report gives a full account of the proceedings of the Health Summit 2003. It provides facts and figures reminding us of the seriousness of health issues facing the North East of England, particularly among our most vulnerable groups. At the same time there are a number of signs of hope. For example trends related to teenage pregnancy are showing a dramatic decrease. Investment for Health is beginning to demonstrate some practical ways the NHS can contribute towards economic regeneration. There is also a tremendous range of activity, enthusiasm and valuable pointers for the future expressed in the workshop discussions, led by the Healthy Living Centres on the following themes:

• Statutory or voluntary - does it matter
• Social capital
• National Service Frameworks
• Community Safety
• Funding expectations
• Demonstrating the difference

This report may act as a reminder for participants of some of the ground covered, and makes this discussion available to those who were not there.