Health inequalities are unjust gaps in health that can be prevented. They happen in various groups and come from social situations people cannot change. These circumstances disadvantage people and limit their chances of living longer, healthier lives.
Planning and designing your services
When changing health and social care services, plan and design them to help those who need it the most. This includes, but is not limited to:
- people experiencing homelessness
- people with mental health conditions
- those who use substances
- individuals with disabilities
- low-income communities
- refugees and asylum seekers
- victims of domestic violence
- minority ethnic communities
- LGBTQ+ individuals
These groups of people often experience poorer health outcomes.
Insights to support change
- Plan and design services with inequalities in mind. Do not wait to assess them after implementation.
- Understand what is driving the inequality and the impact this has on people’s health outcomes.
- Take an evidence-based approach. Analyse data to learn about the needs of specific groups. Look at how they access and use services. Identify any barriers or challenges they face.
- Find out how the proposed changes will impact specific groups. This is especially important for those with protected characteristics. Adjust plans as needed.
- Recognise that different responses may be required to ensure equality for people with different characteristics and types of inequality.