The second Women’s Health Conference was held on 11 July, with a focus on innovation as we further our commitment to be a driving force for better women’s health.
Over 270 people attended the day which put a spotlight on the work being done to tackle women’s health issues. A new study was launched in collaboration with the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities. The needs assessment provides essential data on women’s health issues and highlights areas for further action to be taken, supporting the work of the women’s health profile launched at the last conference. Thank you to Dr Rosie Baker, registrar in public health medicine for talking through the key highlights from the study and for her work leading on this invaluable data. The activity work by delegates from the conference will also be used as part of the development of the regional women’s health implementation plan which will be launched in early autumn.
National speakers Dame Lesley Regan, Women’s Health Ambassador for England and Dr Sue Mann, National Clinical Director in Women’s Health both provided insight into some of the lessons learnt so far in women’s health. They both spoke passionately about areas that are not rocket science to change but would make a big impact to the lives of women and girls. They were also very inspiring to hear – we will get them back again to share more of their learning.
There were some great panel discussions including the work of our women’s health hubs – thanks to Dr Fadi Khalil, Dr Ruth Thompson and Suzanne Watson for sharing the Sunderland model. Dr Nicola Hutchinson from Health Innovation NENC talked about the importance of research in women’s health, and the role of innovation for improved women’s health outcomes and economic growth without widening inequalities. Some of the region’s innovators, through the work of Health Innovation NENC were also showcased. These new technologies can make a big difference and it’s great that we are leading the way in our region to better support women and girls. You can find out more about the innovation in the FemTech Innovation Zone on the conference webpage. Thank you to Dr Nicola Hutchinson and the team for their input and support and for giving us all lots to be proud of.
We heard the stories of women young and old which certainly reinforces the importance of our women’s health programme and that of many in the region. Thank you to all those who kindly shared their experiences – they have made an impact and your voices are listened to.
Over the coming months, we want to hear more people’s views through the Big Conversation, which was also launched at the event. This is a major survey gathering views from across the North East and North Cumbria, with support from the region’s Healthwatch organisations. It will focus on areas like menstrual health and gynaecological conditions, menopause and cancer, as well as fertility, pregnancy loss and postnatal support. We really want people to get involved so please take part in the BIG conversation survey and share with colleagues, friends and family.
You can read more about The BIG conversation here…
The support of the three associate sponsors DAC Beachcroft, Hempsons and Ward Hadaway was very much appreciated in helping stage the event. We also showcased some women innovators in the region both past and present in a short film. We were also joined by the local media – you can watch the Tyne Tees News coverage at 12 minutes in, or read about the conference.
Overall, a fantastic conference and we would like to thank everyone for showing up and getting involved – the journey has certainly begun.
