Health Inequalities in Cumbria - Initial analyses of Survey Responses.

Intro: The Centre for Research in Health and Society (CRiHS) at University of Cumbria wanted to understand the most pressing health inequalities in Cumbria and the factors driving in order to target our research agenda. Methods: Short, online consultation with variety of Cumbrian stakeholders (49 responses). Findings: Inequity in healthcare is apparent in Cumbria; respondents reported uneven access to mental health services, secondary care, ambulance and emergency services as well as differences in commissioning practices across the county. Inequity in health was also reported which was caused by the synergetic effects of multiple (upstream and downstream) factors upon individuals. Conclusions: The provision of healthcare in Cumbria is challenging, as is tackling the wider determinants of health. There is a need for health and wellbeing eco-systems to combine actions at all levels and across sectors, for example, health services (front line, managerial, commissioning), local authorities, local business and VCFSE, together with the development of participation structures for community engagement.