NHSWI was successful in submitting an abstract to the annual June NHSScotland Event (2012), the leading health event in Scotland which provides an opportunity for those working in, and with, NHSScotland to consider and discuss some of the important challenges for health and social care now and in the future.

The abstract entitled ‘Partnership Working in Maternal Health and Nutrition’ participated at the event which this year focused on how to encourage creativity and accelerate innovation.  The abstract was also selected within the best 25% from over 450 others submitted, and the only one selected from nine entered by NHSWI.

The abstract promoted the wide variety of work undertaken to reduce health inequalities for pregnant woman and children in the Western Isles, with the long term outcome for children to have the best possible start in life, which will in turn reduce their health inequalities and reduce their risks of chronic disease both in childhood and later life.

The wide range of work promoted included Food is Fun, ‘Buy It, Cook it, Eat It!’, Young Mum’s Groups, M’ulaidh, Healthy Start, Bosom Buddies, BIBS, staff training, Multi-Tastic, localised parenting information and the ParentingWI website.  Promotion was also made of the Baby Friendly Accreditation which NHSWI’s Maternity Ward is currently undertaking.

The abstract promoted the work which was carried out in partnership by NHS Western Isles’ Health Promotion Department, Maternity Ward, Health Visiting Team and Dietetics Department, in conjunction with the Comhairle’s Community Education and Social Work departments, as well as with local GP Practices, NCH Action for Children, and the Early Years Partnership.  For further information, please contact Isabel Steele, Senior Health Promotion Officer, tel. 01870 603156.