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Childhood obesity is one of the biggest public health challenges we face. However any efforts to tackle the causes of obesity need to be part of a whole systems approach.

“People with substance misuse issues need effective support and treatment, which councils are committed to providing.

Properly funded preventative services would mean councils, working closely with partners and people drawing on support, can maximize the impact of their resources and address community needs. This will also drive down demand for more expensive acute health and social care support.

Councils are facing unprecedented financial challenges, with the increases to employer National Insurance Contributions likely to add significant costs for councils and the wider sector.

Without immediate investment and a long-term funding strategy, the situation will only deteriorate. Ensuring adequate resources to support working-age adults equally must be a government priority.

“We fully support the Government’s smokefree generation ambitions, which will improve the lives and health of people across the country.

The soft drinks industry levy should be devolved to councils and targeted at the areas most in need, to help close the gap in child health inequalities and fight obesity.

“Local public health teams are working closely with the UK Health Security Agency. Surveillance, contact tracing, accurate information from trusted sources, vaccines, treatment and support are key to stop the spread.

This important annual report further evidences the critical challenges facing services which support the health and wellbeing of people across our communities.

“We’re delighted that the Government has listened to the longstanding concerns of the LGA and councils and is taking decisive action to ban single-use vapes from 1 June 2025.