Surrey County Council and the University of Surrey have been awarded a significant grant of around £5 million by the National Institute of Health Research (NIHR). This funding will support a new Health Determinants Research Collaboration (HDRC), focusing on tackling poor health and health inequalities in Surrey.
Objectives of the HDRC
The HDRC aims to gather experts from the council, the university, and other partners to address health priorities through a research-led and evidence-based approach. The collaboration will focus on how lifestyle, social, economic, environmental, and other factors affect health, such as poor housing conditions, food poverty, and air quality.
Community-Centric Approach
A unique aspect of HDRCs is their community-centric model. Local residents will have a significant role in influencing policymaking by setting research priorities. This approach ensures that the research is tailored to the specific health needs of the Surrey community.
Statements from Leaders
Tim Oliver, Leader of Surrey County Council, emphasized the project’s ambition and its potential for sustainable impact on health inequalities. He highlighted the existing collaboration with the University of Surrey and the potential to build on it for better local outcomes.
Ruth Hutchinson, Surrey County Council’s Director of Public Health, expressed enthusiasm for the grant, seeing it as an opportunity for closer collaboration with various stakeholders and direct benefits for local health needs.
Professor Paul A. Townsend, Pro-Vice Chancellor and Executive Dean at the University of Surrey, shared his privilege in leading the University’s part in the HDRC. He emphasized the University’s strengths in healthcare research and practice, and its commitment to the Surrey community.
Economic and Health Impact
The HDRC initiative is expected to stimulate economic growth, especially in deprived areas, and contribute to the government’s long-term plans for the resilience of the nation’s health and wealth.
Nationwide Expansion
Starting 1 January 2024, ten HDRCs will be operational across the UK, with six additional teams, including Surrey, receiving funding to develop their HDRC status.
Conclusion
This grant represents a significant step forward in addressing health inequalities in Surrey. The partnership between Surrey County Council and the University of Surrey, supported by this funding, will focus on generating locally-driven research to tackle health issues effectively.
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