Caw hosts launch ofhealth equity drive

Mr Poots met groups from the six areas taking part in the Neighbourhood Health Improvement Project ‘Building Health - Renewing Communities’ in Caw Youth Club in Londonderry.

He said: “As Minister for Health I am committed to placing public health issues centre stage. But tackling health inequalities in our population is something which involves everyone – Government, the Health and Social Care sector, the Public Health Agency, local councils, statutory organisations right down to local commissioning groups, and community and voluntary organisations.

“I am on record as saying that health is not just the ‘Department of Health’s’ business, but everyone’s business. All of society must play their part to improve and protect the health of the population.

“We need to work collaboratively to tackle poverty, inequality and social exclusion which are responsible for inequalities in health. And I am encouraged to see and hear today about the positive work being carried out by a whole range of partners, both statutory and community; each bringing their unique contributions and working collectively to achieving common aims.

“I am also encouraged to see that the theme of ‘winter health’ including fuel and food poverty has been chosen by all six Neighbourhood Renewal areas as the area-wide campaign for this winter.

“This means there is a coordinated approach across all agencies which empowers local people, particularly those most vulnerable, to look after their health and wellbeing during this winter and beyond.”

Western Trust Chairman Gerard Guckian said: “We are delighted to welcome Health Minister Edwin Poots to the North West to see this outstanding project which the Western Trust is helping to drive forward. This project is a tremendous example of meaningful partnership engaging community and voluntary groups.”

Minister for Social Development Nelson McCausland said: “I welcome the opportunity to support this Neighbourhood Health Improvement Project in the North West.

“There is clear evidence that people living in deprived areas are at a much higher risk of suffering from ill health.

“This project helps redress that imbalance and I am committed to working with local communities and partners across Government to tackle health and other inequalities in disadvantaged areas.

“This will be best achieved by equipping people to take control of their health and make lasting changes for the better. This is another example of how the Executive working together can deliver for the people of Northern Ireland.”