This event will explore how Scotland can use the billions of pounds being invested in infrastructure to benefit public health and wellbeing.
The health and wellbeing of a population is a key focus in any thriving nation, and that has never been clearer than during the pandemic and the current poverty crisis. As such, it is widely recognised that many of the underlying determinants of inequalities in overall health and well-being are directly a result of our environment and our economy. Our built environment and communities are key to reducing these problems and addressing the issue of inequality; key factors include: access to health, mental health, counselling and social care services; the provision of green space, free options for exercise and play for all generations; and employment opportunities. The consistency of living environments without derelict and disused land, which can have huge negative impacts on public physical and mental health, must be dealt with in a collaborative manner between government, communities and other organisations using all of the tools, data and technologies available.