Event to Discuss the Wellbeing of Reading Communities
THE HEALTH and wellbeing of Reading’s communities is the focus of an event at Reading Council Chamber on Wednesday 28th March.
The theme of the day is Health Equalities: ‘Filling the Gaps’, and brings together key organisations in Reading to discuss the reasons for health inequalities and what can be done to address them. The event has been organised by the Alliance For Cohesion & Racial Equality (Acre), with support from Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Reading Borough Council, Utulivu Women, Women of Vision and other grass root community groups. Themes covered during the day will include:- The role of music - therapeutic and communicating key messages
- Social care and health care provision
- The power of community assets
The Chair of Acre, Mr. James Mugo, said:
“Acre works to promote and support community activities in Reading that bring people together for cohesion and positive integration for their health and wellbeing. We hope people will come along on the day to discuss the important issue of how we can all work together to tackle health inequalities.”Gerry Crawford, Regional Director at Berkshire Healthcare, said:
“Health inequalities are the result of the conditions in which people exist as well as their access to health and social care. As a community and mental health provider, we are keen that everyone joins the conversation. The NHS is working on the Equality Delivery System to tackle access issues and we are committed to working in partnership with all sectors to make a real difference to people’s lives.”Cllr Graeme Hoskin, Reading’s Lead Member for Health, said:
“I’m pleased we have been able to support this event. Reading is marked by big health inequalities with residents of the poorest parts of our town dying, on average, about 10 years younger than people from the wealthiest areas. “As a council we’re determined to do what we can to close this gap and support the communities of our town to come together to address this challenge. “The health and wellbeing of our communities is something we can all play a part in. By working together we can help people to enjoy a better quality of life. I’d encourage people to come to this event and share their ideas.” The event runs from 10am to 3pm and is open to everyone, particularly those that work in the voluntary and charity sector and have an interest in the health and wellbeing sector. For further information and to register to attend, please call 01189510279 or email info@acre-reading.org or Cecily.mwaniki@berkshire.nhs.ukEnds