A CALL is being made for people to take part in vital health screenings, stay up to date with vaccinations and make use of services supporting families.
These were some of the key areas of work highlighted in a report by the Chair of the region’s Public Health Committee which was brought to NHS Dumfries and Galloway Board today.
Welcoming what was set out in the report, Director of Public Health Valerie White said: “These programmes and services are more than statistics — they save lives, protect our communities, and ensure everyone has the chance to thrive.
“By taking part in screening, staying up to date with vaccinations, and accessing support where it’s needed, people can make a real difference to their own health and the wellbeing of their families.”
The report highlighted strong local performance across a range of screening programmes.
Cervical screening uptake reached 68%, above the Scottish average of 63%, while bowel screening hit 70%, ranking third among mainland boards.
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) screening also exceeded national targets, with 86% of eligible men taking part.
The uptake of pregnancy and newborn screening programmes in Dumfries and Galloway remains consistently very high, leading to the early identification of rare conditions which supports their effective management.
Vaccination uptake is another key focus. The winter season appears to have started earlier than usual, and eligible groups – including older adults, pregnant people, and those with underlying health conditions – are being invited to receive their flu vaccines. Local uptake is performing well, and public health are encouraging anyone eligible to take up their opportunity when presented.
Child poverty remains a priority, despite a welcome reduction. The local rate fell to 22.7% in 2023-24, down from 26.9% the previous year.
NHS Dumfries and Galloway is helping families through health visiting and maternity services to maximise household income, alongside staff financial wellbeing initiatives to support employees facing financial pressures.
Other updates to the Board included work to address inequalities in outpatient attendance, suicide prevention initiatives, and progress on the Population Health Framework in collaboration with local partners.
Ms White added: “Our Public Health Committee continues to provide assurance on key health priorities.
“We remain focused on reducing inequalities, improving uptake of life-saving screenings and vaccinations, and supporting families and communities to thrive.”
For more information on screening programmes, vaccinations, or support services, people can visit the NHS Dumfries and Galloway website or obtain guidance and advice from the national website www.nhsinform.scot
Advice in respect of the cost of living is available locally at this website: https://www.dumfriesandgalloway.gov.uk/benefits-financial-support/cost-living-support
It is also available nationally here: https://costofliving.campaign.gov.scot/