DDN_Feb_2025 DDN February 2025 | Page 17

‘ Unlike past efforts that didn ’ t lead to lasting impact , this work is different . It has resulted in a coproduced strategy that embeds our learnings and sets a clear direction for service improvements .’
ELEANOR LEVY
enthusiasm to turn the findings into actionable change . Being part of the JSNA process taught me some invaluable lessons – it became clear that there are significant barriers we must overcome , and the path isn ’ t as straightforward as I initially thought . Organisations and individuals are starting to see the benefit of working alongside people with lived experience .’
Despite some roadblocks along the way , the experience was ‘ overwhelmingly positive ,’ he said . ‘ When I helped present the findings to Surrey ’ s Health and Wellbeing Board , their response was encouraging . Most attendees were supportive , and it was inspiring to hear local leaders express their willingness to take bold steps forward . Their comments were a testament to
the potential we have to effect meaningful change .’
Findings from the JSNA chapter show that investment is needed in systems and initiatives to reduce multiple disadvantage for residents of Surrey . Funding also needs to be redistributed to ensure more accessible and person-centred services . Steve said the next step would see them presenting these findings to stakeholders in a collaborative workshop , and together they will aim to co-produce system-wide governance arrangements for addressing multiple disad vantage . This step is key to ensuring sustainable , lasting change .
‘ The JSNA chapter ’ s findings have been a springboard for identifying where change is needed ,’ he said . ‘ By turning recommendations into action we can create a future that ensures everyone has access to the best support and services , no matter what their circumstance are . While obstacles remain , we ’ re gaining strength and momentum . The road may be challenging , but our vision remains clear and hopeful .’
REBUILDING LIVES Nat Adams is also in the lived experienced team after an online gambling addiction affected her mental health , family relationships and left her homeless .
‘ One of the highlights of the JSNA research for me was interviewing stakeholders and service providers ,’ she said . ‘ It was eye-opening to hear their struggles and perspectives ,
which made their challenges more relatable . This helped us better understand the situation rather than feeling completely dismissed . It was admitted that poor housing remains a major issue , and without stable housing it ’ s hard to have good health outcomes .
‘ I also enjoyed being part of the co-production team ,’ she continued . ‘ It was helpful to connect with people who ’ ve faced similar struggles – it gave us a sense of community and purpose . While the findings weren ’ t surprising to me , they ’ re important for stakeholders . commissioners and policymakers to see . They highlight the need for better support to help people improve lives , overcome addiction , and truly recover . The project showed how vital support is for rebuilding lives .’
Other recommendations from the JSNA report include establishing strong governance for multiple disadvantage which includes developing a fiveyear strategy with measurable objectives . Also , ensuring that health and care services are commissioned in a way that promotes partnership and integration through the adoption of best practices for people experiencing multiple disadvantage .
VISIONARY ROADMAP Ella Turner , programme manager of the Health Determinants Research Collaborative ( HDRC ) at Surrey County Council , said that the JSNA chapter on multiple disadvantage ‘ signals a shift
Working with the lived experience team to coproduce the next chapter in Surrey ’ s strategy .
towards a more integrated , empathetic , and effective approach to support those facing complex challenges .
Lived experience , stakeholder engagement , and data analysis have been the foundation of our recommendations , ensuring that those most affected are at the heart of the solution .’
The chapter offers a visionary roadmap for reshaping how support systems function . By drawing on expertise from lived experience contributors , the chapter focuses on how services must be person-centred , with a trauma-informed approach .
‘ The JSNA chapter highlights significant barriers within the current system , including services that can be restrictive and a lack of flexibility ,’ said Ella . ‘ Our aim is to address these challenges with an actionable set of recommendations to ensure a system-wide cultural shift .’
This report represents a call to action for a more equitable and compassionate future for our communities . Following these findings Surrey ’ s Changing Futures programme will continue focusing on prevention and reducing health inequalities across Surrey .
Lisa Byrne is Changing Futures programme manager
To read the JSNA on multiple disadvantage go to www . surreyi . gov . uk / jsna / jsna-multipledisadvantage /# contents _ 28
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