4.—(1) Before formulating a strategy, the responsible bodies shall carry out an assessment of the health and well-being needs of the local population.
(2) An assessment under paragraph (1) shall include an assessment of the matters set out in regulation 5(2)(a) to (g) below.
(3) In carrying out an assessment under paragraph (1), the responsible bodies shall co-operate with the persons or bodies listed in regulation 3(1) and shall consult —
(a)the local population; and
(b)such other persons or organisations as appear to the responsible bodies to be representative of interests likely to be substantially affected by the strategy;
and shall have regard to the results of such consultation in formulating a needs assessment under paragraph (1).
(4) In carrying out an assessment under paragraph (1), the responsible bodies shall comply with any directions and have regard to any guidance given by the Assembly pursuant to section 24(7)(a) or (b) of the 2002 Act.