Surrey Scoops £5 Million to Fight Health Inequality
Surrey County Council and the University of Surrey have bagged a hefty £5 million grant from the National Institute of Health Research (NIHR). The cash boost launches a powerful new Health Determinants Research Collaboration (HDRC) aimed at smashing poor health and tackling inequality across Surrey.
What’s the HDRC All About?
The HDRC pulls together top experts from the council, university, and local partners to target Surrey’s biggest health challenges. They’ll dig into how lifestyle, social, economic, and environmental issues like substandard housing, food poverty, and air pollution are wrecking health across the county.
Community at the Heart of the Fight
This isn’t just academics in an ivory tower. The HDRC puts local residents in the driving seat, letting them shape research priorities and influence local policymaking. This hands-on approach means solutions will be tailored to what Surrey’s communities really need.
Leaders on a Mission
Tim Oliver, Surrey County Council Leader, said: “This project is ambitious, and we’re driven to create lasting solutions for health inequality here.” He hailed the strong bond with the University of Surrey as a key to success.
Ruth Hutchinson, Director of Public Health, added: “This grant is a golden opportunity to deepen partnerships and directly improve health outcomes for our residents.”
Professor Paul A. Townsend of the University of Surrey said: “We’re proud to lead this initiative, combining cutting-edge healthcare research with real-world impact for Surrey.”
Boosting Economy and Health Together
Besides improving health, the HDRC is expected to spark economic growth in deprived spots across Surrey, feeding into the government’s grand plan for a healthier, wealthier nation.
HDRCs Set to Spread Nationwide
From 1 January 2024, ten HDRCs will roll out across the UK, with Surrey among six teams gearing up to join the ranks with new funding and projects.
Surrey’s Big Step Forward
This injection of funding marks a giant leap in the fight against health inequality in Surrey. The partnership between the council and university aims to deliver real, locally-driven research that makes a tangible difference to people’s lives.
