Tackling inequalities through partnership working: the development of a neighbourhood project

Abstract

The focus of this paper is on health inequalities at a local level and the implications for community-based practice. This paper describes the development of a small multiagency project supporting families in a disadvantaged urban neighbourhood within the UK. A baseline assessment enabled primary and secondary data to be collected to inform project development and identify priorities for action. Findings revealed the scale of health need and helped focus the direction of the project. Several issues affecting implementation were identified, including the importance of good liaison between services and adopting a community development approach. This paper discusses the wider implications for the planning, delivery and evaluation of community-based initiatives addressing health inequalities. Despite the scale of need, there appears to be good potential for practitioners working in disadvantaged neighbourhoods to achieve some positive changes. Key points of learning are identified.

The DNA of Social Work as a Partner in Primary Health Care

“…Further, working in a connecting way is linked with the generalist characteristic, as social workers do consider other aspects of health, which leads to referrals to other services for those particular areas of life. However, the description of long-term partnerships at local level remained weak, nonetheless local practitioners and services have the potential to make an important contribution to improving health in disadvantaged neighborhoods (Lockyer & South, 2006). Third, the politicizing work of social workers is linked with the generalist position of social workers.…”