West Midlands Combined Authority has been chosen as one of five areas in England to become a Prevention Accelerator Site.

The programme brings together the NHS, councils, community organisations and employers to help people identify health risks earlier and get support before problems become more serious.

Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, said: ‘Good health is fundamental to a good quality of life, yet across the West Midlands, too many people are living with preventable illnesses and nearly 160,000 people are out of work because of a health condition.

‘In piloting the Prevention Accelerator, we're working with Government, the NHS and local partners to identify risks earlier, prevent illness where we can, and help people stay healthier for longer.

‘This is about improving lives, reducing health inequalities, and creating healthier communities. That also means more people able to work, helping to strengthen our economy and reduce pressure on our public services.'