ABSTRACT
Liverpool used to be one of the most important ports of the world. By the start of the 19th century 40 per cent of all trade was passing through the city's port, which facilitated a fast growth of the population. This growth continued during the industrial revolution. Liverpool First brings together key public, private, voluntary, community and faith sector organisations, including the Primary Care Trust and the City Council. The City Council of Liverpool and the Primary Care Trust are jointly responsible for promoting health. This chapter provides a general profile of the city in order to gain some understanding of the relevant context. It assesses various strategies and initiatives that have been developed to improve the health situation: the city's participation in the WHO Healthy Cities Programme, a local strategic partnership, the city's strategy for healthcare facilities and the redevelopment of the Alder Hey children's hospital.
