THE first meeting of a new group which will look at drawing up a health strategy for York will be held next week.

The Health And Wellbeing Board, part of Government health reforms, will have full decision-making powers and be held to account for them from next April. A shadow body has been set up in advance to outline key issues for York.

It will meet for the first time between 4.30pm and 6.30pm on Wednesday at the Guildhall and the agenda is available at democracy.york.gov.uk, with those wanting to speak needing to register by 5pm on Tuesday by phoning Judith Betts on 01904 551078 or emailing judith.betts@york.gov.uk

Coun Tracey Simpson-Laing, City of York Council’s cabinet member for health, housing, and adult social services and the board’s chair, said: “It will provide a leadership role to create an effective and efficient health and well-being system for York.”