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North Yorkshire mayor David Skaith highlights health powers and fitness drive
Overview
York and North Yorkshire's elected Labour mayor, David Skaith, is set to use a keynote conference speech to discuss how local leaders can take on a bigger role in improving public health. Marking a year since the launch of his £7m Moving Forward campaign—which uses sport, outdoor activities, and mental health support to help people enter or stay in employment—Skaith noted that over 2,000 people are participating. While political opponents have welcomed the scheme's goals, some have called for closer monitoring of measurable outcomes to ensure value for money.
Key points
- North Yorkshire mayor David Skaith is advocating for local leaders to have a greater role in improving public health to boost the economy.
- The £7m Moving Forward campaign has engaged over 2,000 participants in sports, outdoor activities, and mental health support over the past year.
- Groups such as Menfulness have used funding to set up exercise-based events in rural areas like Malton to support local men.
- Political opponents have praised the aspirations of the scheme but stressed the need for measurable outcomes and careful monitoring of value for money.