South West Norfolk MP Terry Jermy welcomes £47million public health funding to tackle issues including addiction recovery

South West Norfolk’s MP has welcomed an increase in funding for public health services for the county.

Labour MP Terry Jermy is pleased with the funding announcement, which will mean Norfolk will receive just over £47million to help drive key services such as smoking cessation, addiction recovery and children’s health.

It will also help to fund family and school nurses, sexual health clinics and other public services.

The funding comes as part of a £200million national funding boost to the Public Health Grant.

Mr Jermy said: “After nearly a decade of cuts under the Tories, I am delighted that Labour are continuing to deliver on our promise to improve health outcomes across the country as part of our Plan for Change.

“This funding will help drive key health services in our community, prevent people from falling into ill health, and relieve pressure on the NHS.

“This is yet more proof of a Labour Government delivering for our community in South West Norfolk.”

Minister for Public Health and Prevention, Andrew Gwynne MP, added: “Lord Darzi’s investigation into the NHS found that children are sicker today than a decade ago, and adults are falling into ill-health earlier in life.

“Prevention is better than cure. If we can reach people earlier and help them stay healthy, this extra investment will pay for itself several times over in reduced demand on the NHS and by keeping people in work.

“Whether it’s supporting people to quit smoking, giving children a healthy start to life, or providing addiction recovery services, this investment as part of the government’s Plan for Change will make a real difference in communities across the country.

“After a decade of cuts to public health, this government is committed to shifting the focus of healthcare from sickness to prevention, and we’re putting our money where our mouth is.”