The Core20PLUS5 approach is being used to help better understand health inequalities in Croydon. Core20PLUS5 is an NHS England and NHS Improvement programme which aims to tackle inequalities by identifying and paying more attention to those who at a greater risk of poorer health, focusing on those who are at greater risk of poorer health focusing on 5 key clinical chosen areas.
Working in partnership with Croydon BME Forum, Croydon’s Core20Plus5 Community Connectors, Lisa and Lesley, help narrow the health inequalities gap by building relationships with the community. Together they deliver health awareness events providing information and bringing local services to the heart of the community, relating to the key focus areas of the Core20Plus5 programme.
The events give people the opportunity to learn about health topics under one roof and become familiar with services they may not be aware of. Health professionals and local organisations are invited to talk at the events to lend their expertise and shed light on how to manage health conditions, maintain a healthy lifestyle and gets support.
Over 800 people have participated in the events so far with events taking place across trusted and accessible spaces in Croydon such as the Wellness Centre, Socco Cheta and Shiloh Church. Events have also offered valuable free health and blood pressure checks by long-term conditions project coordinators and volunteers. Complimentary healthy lunch has been provided at the events alongside dance classes and free massages keeping in mind to create an inviting atmosphere.
I have been able to work on building relationships with the community and work with the ethos of providing a safe space and safe place to come to, which was also welcoming to all. Whilst learning from these experiences and recognising that the community was still dealing with the aftermath of the pandemic, I also wanted to create a fun space for everyone particularly those experiencing mistrust, depression, and isolation.”
Lisa Broderick, Core20Plus5 Community Connector.
Brinda*, a local resident, has found the events a great opportunity to learn about a variety of health topics and socialise with new people. She also tells her friends and family about the new things she has learned, helping to signpost them to services they may not have heard of.
Although it has been a few months since I started, I am continuing to reflect on the best ways to make the community aware of the ‘core20plus 5 key clinical areas of health inequalities’ so that our community feels that our organisation is an approachable source for awareness and information.”
Lesley Tyson, Core20Plus5 Community Connector.
Lisa and Lesley continue to work closely with the community and partners to delivery events across Croydon, helping to reduce health inequalities across Croydon.
You can find more information about these events.
What are health inequalities?
Health inequalities are unfair and avoidable differences in health across the population. It involves differences in our health status, access to care and wider determinants of health such as where someone lives and their ethnicity. Tackling health inequalities is a priority for the NHS, working with local organisations and communities to ensure there is equal access to the health and care system.