Future Activity
HAREF has, over the last 8 years, developed a strong reputation in Newcastle based upon its integrity and commitment to inclusion and involvement. We believe we can build upon our strengths by working closely in partnership with the statutory and voluntary sectors. With this in mind, we succesfully applied to the NHS North of Tyne for funding for HAREF from April 2009 which will allow us to focus on:
Maximising the collective impact of the membership
HAREF will continue to hold regular action-focused meetings where members can come together to report issues affecting BME communities. We will celebrate things that work well, identify gaps and problems and co-ordinate action to address these.
Exchanging good practice and sharing ideas
HAREF will organise away days at which members identify key issues around improving access to health and healthcare for BME communities.
We will also, in partnership with other organisations, hold an annual conference to discuss and plan local action to reduce health inequalities.
Joint working
HAREF will support working groups, developing action to address issues raised by the membership and at HAREF events. Mental health and sexual health have already been highlighted as issues to take forward in 2009.
We will promote and engage with local, regional and national public health initiatives.
We will work closely with the Newcastle Local Involvement Network (LINk) and the emerging Standing Assembly to support new initiatives and joint working.
We will support and participate in strategic boards and partnerships, local forums and consultative exercises as appropriate.
Community Engagement
HAREF will continue to support the most marginalised communities to engage with service developments in the ways that work best for them.
We will provide targeted support for community engagement, for example around work with young people and their local primary care teams.
Advice and information
HAREF will provide advice to NHS organisations and to our members/partners about practices and policies in relation to the needs of BME communities.
We will maintain and develop our regular members email information bulletins.
Training and awareness raising
HAREF will provide and develop our training guidelines and organise diversity training.
Sustainability
HAREF will look to build on funding received to develop and deliver an expanded work programme.
