Dame Yve Buckland blogs with us...
We're here in Manchester at the Healthy Communities Beacon Learning Event. There's a great buzz going on in the room...People are learning from each other, talking excitedly about how they are making a difference in improving health in their own communities. I don't think anyone is going to walk away from today without some ideas on how they can improve what they're doing locally - even the Beacon sites themselves!
Best wishes
Dame Yve Buckland
The examples of good practice demonstrate how,with a true commitment to tackle inequalities, the co-deliver of local authorities and the NHS can make a difference. The challnge remains one of sustainability and a commitment beyond the political tenure of the government and local administration of the day.
A most informative day here at the Beacon Learning Exchange. I spoke about the co-delivery role of local authorities and the NHS to implement the Choosing Health White Paper. Improving health and reducing health inequalities presents a major challenge and partnership and leadership for health at the local level are crucial for success. We all need to share what we know works so we can support each other and create a momentum for change.
Martin Gibbs
Local Government and Communities Manager, DH