A unique Trust-wide initiative has been launched to tackle the health inequalities faced by people across the region on a daily basis.
Everyone who works for Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust has been invited to take part in the TEWV Inequalities Team Challenge – to help raise awareness of barriers to care.
Time to take on the challenge
“We serve hugely diverse communities and the groups we serve are some of the most vulnerable to health inequalities,” said Trust chief executive Brent Kilmurray.
“We are committed to doing all we can to supporting people to live their best lives. That includes thinking carefully about how we address inequalities in big and small ways.
“The challenge will encourage us all to think about the issues people face, have a better understanding of our communities and commit to taking action to help make things better.”
Group helped highlight inequalities
The health inequalities faced by many people seeking support for their mental health were highlighted by a co-created lived experience group earlier this year.
The engagement group – including service users, carers and staff – dedicated 11 months to examining potential barriers to care through art, poetry and a powerful film.
The results of their work were presented to over 80 heath delegates at a Patient Safety Summit earlier this year and now form a key part of the new team challenge.
“Our members identified a wide range of inequalities people face when seeking health care,” said Trust public health consultant Catherine Parker, who set up the group.
“We would love to see as many people as possible from across the Trust taking part in the challenge. Collectively, small incremental changes can help make a huge difference.”
Barriers to care access
Financial problems, long-term health conditions, learning difficulties and understanding of different cultural backgrounds were all flagged by the group as potential barriers to access.
Issues with transport, literacy difficulties and language differences were also highlighted as challenges to people when seeking mental health support.
“One size does not fit all The group was very clear about that. Inequalities really do have a direct impact on people’s lives, which is why we are treating this so seriously,” said Catherine.
