From the 1st of April 2016, following a shadow year, the JIB took responsibility for planning, commissioning and overseeing the delivery of a wide range of health and social care functions.

These functions will be delivered in an integrated way, primarily by North Lanarkshire Council and NHS Lanarkshire - known collectively as Health and Social Care North Lanarkshire. Unpaid carers, the voluntary sector and the independent sector are key partners too.

Following the inaugural meeting this month, Councillor Harry McGuigan, the JIB’s chairman, explained the new arrangements, required by law, have a clear purpose.

He said: “We are committed to creating safer, healthier, independent lives for the people of North Lanarkshire.

“Integration is also about people receiving the support and care they need, efficiently and effectively at the right time and in the right place.”

The new board is drawn from representatives from North Lanarkshire Council, NHS Lanarkshire, professional health and care disciplines as well as the voluntary and third sectors.

The first meeting follows many months of wider engagement with public, staff, partners and stakeholders to establish local needs and priorities throughout North Lanarkshire.

The immediate focus of the JIB is to set out a key plan, known as The Strategic Commissioning Plan, which will detail practical steps to address these needs and priorities. The plan is due to be finalised by December 2016.

Janice Hewitt, chief accountable officer for Health and Social Care North Lanarkshire, added: “Staff will play a key part in the delivery of safe outcomes. In the lead up to the first JIB meeting, I had the privilege of meeting, speaking and listening to staff across North Lanarkshire in a series of staff events.”

Councillor McGuigan concluded: “As we all play our part in looking after our own health and that of friends, family and those in the community we are certain we will build safer, healthier, independent lives for the people in North Lanarkshire.”