The New Year has begin with a note of ‘good news’-the arrest and imprisonment of two of Stephen Lawrence’s killers-finally brought to justice.
Please see the February edition of BJGP for an extended commentary: ‘Viewpoint’ on the issue of racism in British society and its impact on health. The issue of the inequitable way in which the stop and search approach is being employed has once again been brought to the fore: young black men are 6x as likely to be stopped than white counterparts (1).
2012 represents a year of challenge for all of us who recognize that not only are young people our future but that promoting their good health NOW matters to us all.
There is much we can do in general practice around building trusting relationships with young people and finding out from them how we can support their own journey as they make their own decisions about their lives. Talking to them about what matters in their world rather than what we think is important is a very good start.
If you are looking for ideas as to what changes you might make in your own practice in 2012 then the AYPH March event might be just what you need:
http://www.youngpeopleshealth.org.uk
This one day event on March 27th is aimed at practitioners and researchers from across the UK who have an interest in young people's health. It will provide delegates with an opportunity to share their experiences of healthcare research as well as promoting innovative approaches for practice.
Young people will play a key role and hopefully will keep us focused and energized on the things that matter. The RCGP Adolescent Health Group alongside the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, the Welsh Government and DECIPHer are co-hosting the event.
Do join us!
If anyone reading this blog is interested in knowing more about the group please contact myself or Hannah Price
hannah.price@rcgp.org.uk
Happy New Year to all
Jane
jane.roberts@sunderland.ac.uk
