A PLANNED £20million investment in health services for Wirral residents has been approved by councillors today.

Cabinet members considered a range of services, including drug and alcohol, smoking cessation and weight management services during a meeting this morning.

The money will also pay for services to ensure that comprehensive plans are in place across the authority, NHS and other agencies, to respond to infectious disease outbreaks and other emergencies.

In her report to cabint Cllr Chris Jones, cabinet member for public health, said: "This will ensure we can continue to deliver major, ongoing improvements to residents' health in the coming 12 months.

"Giving every Wirral resident the support, opportunity and encouragement they need to lead healthier lives is incredibly important, and one of our key pledges for 2020.

"It's really important to help every resident enjoy a better quality of life."

 The investment plan, considered by councillors is as follows:

  • Drug and alcohol services:  £7,332,674
  • Smoking cessation:            £697,878
  • Sexual health:                   £2,939,729
  • Children (0-19):                £6,909,800
  • Weight management:        £200,000
  • Health checks:                  £306,029
  • Mental health:                   £40,000
  • Miscellaneous:                   £1,614,027
  • Infection control:               £223,578

Total = £20,263,715