NHS Calderdale has commissioned a new research project to explore the health needs and well being of the older Irish population (50 years and over) in the district. The role of the Primary Care Trust is to make sure that local health services meet the needs of the 200,000 people throughout Calderdale. One of its main responsibilities is to work with local people to help them to live healthier lives and reduce health inequalities, including those of minority ethnic groups. The Irish population is one of the district's largest minority ethnic groups, hence the NHS is keen to explore the distinct health needs of this community.
A broad definition of 'Irish' has been adopted for this study which includes all those who consider themselves to be Irish. This therefore includes first (Irish born), second and third generation Irish, those born in England or on the island of Ireland (i.e. the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland). An equally broad definition of 'health' is used which includes aspects of people's physical, emotional and social health and well being. The study will also examine Irish people's use and experiences of health and health-related services, and the extent to which their health needs are met by existing statutory and voluntary sector providers.
Calderdale NHS Specialty Registrar in Public Health, Tim Fielding said" We were very pleased to commission this important piece of research, and are looking forward to working with Dr Rionach Casey and Professor John Flint from Sheffield Hallam University."
Rionach Casey and John Flint are based in the high profile Centre for Regional Economic & Social Research (CRESR) at Sheffield Hallam University. Rionach and John have previously carried out research for the Federation of Irish Societies, the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, the Economic and Social Research Council, Local Authorities, and Housing Associations. Rionach stressed the need to give all sectors of the community a voice: Irish born, people of Irish or dual heritage, those not currently involved in Irish activities or events, Catholics and non-Catholics. The report is due out next spring, and the quality of the research will depend on the active engagement of the community. There are several ways that people can become involved including taking part in a focus group or in a one-to-one interview.
Irish people willing to be involved in the research are urged to contact Rionach Casey or John Flint
CONTACT:
Rionach Casey
CRESR
Unit 10
Science
Park
Howard Street
Sheffield
Tel: 0114-225-2987
email: r.casey@shu.ac.uk
John Flint
CRESR
Unit 10
Science Park
Howard Street
Sheffield
Tel: 0114-225-4680
e-mail: j.f.flint@shu.ac.uk