The launch of Inspiring Communities to get Active Together – the first initiative of the Western Joint Working Programme between the Public Health Agency and Local Government took place at Strule Arts Centre, Omagh on Thursday 3 June.
The initiative was launched by the Public Health Agency and four local Councils (Derry, Fermanagh, Omagh and Strabane) in the West of the Province. The new arrangements will help drive forward health improvements and tackle health inequalities in the Western Area.
The focus of Western Joint Working will be physical activity – initially cycling – with a programme of events planned throughout the year under the Inspiring Communities to Get Active Together theme.
Speaking at the launch in the Strule Arts Centre, Dr Elizabeth Mitchell, and Deputy Chief Medical Officer said
“There have been significant advances in public health in recent years, with life expectancy rising overall. However, there is still a continuing health gap.
Many people die prematurely every year in Northern Ireland due to preventable illness. As part of the reforms of health and social care (HSC), the strengthening of partnership working between HSC and Local Government to deliver real change in health and wellbeing in communities across Northern Ireland is a key objective. That is what this initiative is all about.”
Ed McClean, Director of Operations, Public Health Agency said: “Significant progress has been made in the last year to put in place new Joint Working arrangements between the Public Health Agency and local Councils. The launch of this initiative is a practical manifestation of this in the Western area. Together we all now have a real opportunity to tackle the major public health challenges that affect our communities, such as obesity and alcohol and drug misuse.”
Minister for the Environment, Edwin Poots MLA in welcoming the launch of the Western Cluster Joint Working partnership said: “I recognise the value of a co-ordinated approach to public service delivery involving all key providers. This initiative between local government and the Public Health Agency is to be commended for its leadership, foresight, and determination to work in partnership to secure better health outcomes for people, and to tackle health inequalities.
“I am confident that the experience developed and the lessons learned will be invaluable as we prepare for the implementation of Community Planning in Northern Ireland”.
Mr Philip Faithful, Chief Executive of Strabane District Council, representing the Western cluster of councils, explained that the focus of the cluster in its initial work was to be on promoting physical activity with a clear commitment to involving all parts of our community.
Olympic Silver Medallist and Double World Champion in Cycling, Wendy Houvenaghel, said, "I am delighted to support this initiative and believe it will increase access to sport and physical activity within the community and it can inspire people of all ages to take part. I'd encourage everyone to make the most of this exciting opportunity and get involved in the free events that will be widely available to all."
