New team to examine areas with high infant mortality

A new group will visit 43 areas with the highest rate of infant mortality to tackle the issue of health inequalities, it has been announced.

Delivering four-day programmes of tailored support, workshops and interviews will be the National Support Team.

Teenage pregnancy, maternal obesity, child poverty and smoking will be some of the main topics addressed as all factors play a role in the life expectancy of youngsters.

Public health minister Dawn Primarolo explained 3,000 infants die every year before they reach their first birthday.

“These personal tragedies, unbearable for those affected, are even more poignant when issues like class, wealth, ethnicity, or preventable factors are involved,” she noted.

Using an evidence-based and systematic approach, the team will be able to support the local NHS and partners in places that are affected the most, Ms Primarolo concluded.

Earlier this month, the south-east government office said it was important to try and narrow the health inequality gap in the region.

Professor Yvonne Doyle pointed out there were “pockets of real deprivation” in some parts.