MORE support will be offered to both young and vulnerable people across the district to improve their health.

Braintree Council's overview and scrutiny committee for health recommended the council set up its own Live Well Scheme.

The scheme would mirror work done by the Mid Essex Clinical Commissioning Group to improve health and wellbeing across the county.

Part of the focus will be on making sure young children have the right skills and mindset to start school.

A report read to the council, which was presented by Hedingham councillor Jo Beavis, said: "In light of the fact that 57 per cent of Reception Year children living in the Braintree district have not been adequately prepared for school, the District Council should work alongside its health partners and other local stakeholders to tackle the rising issues surrounding school readiness."

Other issues raised included improving mental health locally and attracting more GPs to district.

Recently independent takeaways have also been encouraged by the council to provide healthier menu options to tackle childhood obesity.

The report said: "It is recommended that Braintree District Council works with Essex County Council Public Health in the creation of a whole systems approach model to childhood obesity specific to the Braintree District, and encourage the adoption of the daily mile in local schools.

"It involves students running or walking for one mile every day, it has been scientifically proven that running a mile per day reduces obesity and improves children’s fitness, behaviour and increases concentration levels."

A meeting was held with councillors to discuss the recommendations on Monday, June 27.