Health Minister Mike Nesbitt today launched a new large scale and innovative engagement programme designed to establish a clear, shared, and credible deal between Northern Ireland’s citizens and the health and social care system.
The Minister visited the Lesley Abbeycentre in Newtownabbey this morning to take part in a ‘This is our health’ event and to hear the views of individuals.
Commenting, Minister Nesbitt said we all need to consider a different approach when it comes to building a healthier, more resilient Northern Ireland.
“This is not a typical public health campaign or survey. We won’t be telling people what we think they should do, they will be telling us, and that’s a significant shift. ‘This is our health’ is very much part of our Reset Plan and links well with the Neighbourhood Model of care and the need to change and develop the relationship between people and the health service. These conversations will help us shape a more sustainable, responsive and effective health and social care system.”
‘This is our health’ is a key part of the Minister’s overall strategic approach to prevention in the Reset Plan reflecting the important shift of ‘People to Partners.’ The programme will identify what people need most from the health service and the part they can play in making those services work better.
Minister Nesbitt continued: “Our healthcare resources are limited, demand is rising and care is becoming more complex. Through ‘This is our health’ people will be telling us what things help them stay well for longer, what they want the health service to guarantee, and in turn what they could do to help protect services going forward. So, freeing up capacity and protecting vital services will be important outcomes.”
‘This is our health’ will be rolled out in every county across Northern Ireland between now and the end of June and will include in-person engagement in a range of public spaces and within community and voluntary groups. People will also be able to contribute through digital and social media channels, as well as completing a short questionnaire online.
More details on how you can join the conversation and updates about the location of upcoming engagement events can be found at https://thisisourhealth.org.uk/.