A major programme of work aiming to minimise future health inequalities and fully understand the complex impacts of the pandemic on communities is seeking evidence and engagement to shape targeted interventions to improve healthcare services, patient care and the overall health of the Midlands.

The Midlands Health Inequalities Policy Commission, led by Midlands Innovation Health with support from the Midlands Engine, is collecting written views, empirical data, existing reports and recommendations to identify best practice and opportunities to accelerate change.

Community groups, patient and public involvement forums and people with lived experiences of health inequalities are also encouraged to share feedback and engage with the call for evidence through one-to-one interviews, group discussions or testimonials (written or verbal).

Professor Pauline Walsh, Convenor for Midlands Innovation Health (MI Health) and Executive Dean for Health, Keele University said: “This is a unique opportunity to inform and influence a significant project that will help transform the long-term future for many people.

“The Midlands Health Inequalities Policy Commission will determine what the main health inequality issues are in the Midlands, identify areas of best practice and potential barriers to delivery, before identifying priorities and actions for change.

“We are committed to gathering a broad range of evidence and views that are truly representative, only then can we really understand the reality that communities and individuals are facing.”

Individuals and organisations interested in the opportunity should contact Alex Archibald for further details by 1 March 2022 via email or Twitter or via this online form.

Dr Helen Turner, Director for Midlands Innovation also commented. “I’m confident this commission will enable key stakeholders and government to better understand the longer-term consequences of the pandemic, the demonstrator role the Midlands can play in tackling these issues, and how improved health will ensure that we can better deliver the levelling-up agenda in the Midlands.”

Pauline added: “I want to thank our 15 commissioners who represent NHS, industry, academia, charities, local and national government who are helping to address critical challenges.”