Health inequalities
Monday, 09 Jun 2008 11:03
Alan Johnson said he is committed to reducing inequalities
Campaigners and medical professionals have welcomed the latest plans from the government to reduce health inequalities in the UK.
Figures released from the Department of Health show that life expectancy has improved year-on-year for the last decade and the proportion of children living in poverty in this country has halved in absolute terms since 1998-99.
But while health in disadvantaged areas is improving, the gap in life expectancy between those living in the richest and poorest areas is widening.
The latest steps to target this are geared towards action in local communities and are outlined in the government's document Progress and Next Steps.
A total of £19 million is to go to groups working in communities to improve the lifestyles of individuals and to establish a new National Support Team to address high infant mortality in disadvantaged groups and areas.
A further £15 million will be focussed on those with the greatest need including children; those living and working in disadvantaged communities; and those living with mental health issues.
"To make more progress we need to recognise and accept that health inequalities are everyone's business - not just an issue for the NHS, but for government and society as a whole," said health secretary Alan Johnson.
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