Brighton & Hove City Council has launched the Annual Report of the Director of Public Health for 2024, showcasing how the city is making the healthy choice the easy choice with a whole systems approach.
This year’s report focuses on the topic of ‘healthy weight’ and celebrates the work of dozens of local partners who have come together to create healthier environments, support families, empower schools and businesses, and help residents move more and eat well.
From increasing access to breastfeeding support and affordable healthy school meals, to rethinking how we design our streets and workplaces, the report highlights the positive changes taking shape across the city and outlines action taken across key areas:
- Support for new and expectant parents to eat well and stay active
- Maintaining one of the UK’s highest breastfeeding rates – 20% above the national average
- Whole school approaches to food, active play and free school meals
- Healthier workplace initiatives led by local employers and the Chamber of Commerce
- Urban planning that prioritises active design and food access
- Citywide action on junk food advertising, particularly around children
- Better public food offers and recognition for restaurants offering healthier options
Caroline Vass, Director of Public Health, said: “This report shows what we can achieve when everyone plays a part. Supporting healthy weight isn’t just about individual choice – it’s about creating environments where healthy living is easier, fairer and more sustainable. We’re incredibly proud of the work happening across Brighton & Hove.”
Councillor Mitchie Alexander, Cabinet Member for Communities, Equalities, Public Health and Adult Social Care, said: “I welcome this report with its focus on food and healthy weight for all our city’s residents. As a city we are proud to be one of the most physically active in the country and we know that there are still lots more opportunities to develop work.
“We will continue to influence both our physical and our commercial environments, from local food growing to healthier advertising working with food businesses and our transport partners.”
Councillor Faiza Baghoth, Chair of Health & Wellbeing Board, said: “I’m delighted to support this partnership approach to addressing an important health and wellbeing issue for our city. Although we recognise some good progress, we know there is still a way to go before every child growing up in the city lives in an environment where making the healthy choice is the easy choice.”
According to Health Counts 2024, 53% of adults did less than 30 minutes of sport or fitness activity which raised their breathing rate in the past week, and 28% of adults sit for 10 or more hours on a weekday.
Our Let’s Get Moving Strategy sets out our vision to make the city a place where everyone has the opportunity, encouragement, and environment to move more and live well.
The annual report also features local stories and lived experiences, alongside links to support services, community projects and practical advice for eating well and moving more.
Residents are encouraged to explore the report and learn how they can take simple steps – at home, school, work or in their neighbourhoods – to support a healthier city.
Read the full report to find out more about support and initiatives near you.
