MEND's response to today's Queen's Speech

25 May 2010

Harry MacMillan, chief executive of MEND, a social enterprise that provides community-based healthy living programmes, said:
"The focus on reducing health inequalities and improving public health in today's Queen's Speech is very welcome and shows a government that is committed to creating a fairer society.

"Research has shown that children from poorer families are more likely to be obese and suffer from preventable diseases as a result. This has resulted in a polarised society where children from different socio-economic backgrounds are sadly not given the same healthy start in life, which in turn leads to more aggravated health inequalities in adult hood. We are therefore heartened to see such positive action being taken to tackle this important and pressing issue.

"At a time when the recently published Marmot Review has highlighted the continuing health inequalities between socio-economic groups, and the government has clearly stated the need to make widespread budget savings, this is a very sensible policy to pursue.

"Whilst we welcome this good news, we hope the new government will ensure that the implementation of this policy area is swift and avoids the challenges of the PCT Commissioning process that has so often slowed down the process of getting support to the people who need it most.

"We hope this new focus on public health and addressing health inequalities will create a level playing field so that children across the England have the same opportunities and healthy start in life that all children deserve.

"As an evidence-based organisation, MEND is pleased to see a renewed focus on payment by results. Giving families access to information and support about healthy living, through evidence-based courses such as the MEND Programme, is a proven way to improve public health and reduce health inequalities and we look forward to supporting the government in achieving their goal."

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