Women and girls asked to shape the future of their health and wellbeing
North Yorkshire Council ran a survey that aims to improve the health and wellbeing of local women by placing their voices at the centre of their care needs.
This follows on from 140 people who attended the Women’s Health Conference in Harrogate. They discussed how to improve health and reduce inequalities for women. People shared their insights and experiences.
The survey wanted to dive deeper, covering topics like contraception, breast health, and check-ups. It also includes healthy ageing, pregnancy, infertility, and cervical screening. Mental health, emotional wellbeing, and menopause have been part of it too.
Why speaking up matters
Listening to women’s health needs, including their health and social care, is essential for creating a healthier and fairer society. A fair society is one where everyone has equal access to opportunities, resources, and rights, no matter who they are or where they come from. This involves removing obstacles that stop people from reaching their full potential, making sure everyone can take part fully in all aspects of life.
In North Yorkshire, women face unique challenges that require targeted interventions. For example, women in the North of England, including North Yorkshire, have a lower healthy life expectancy compared to the national average. According to research by the University of York, girls born in Yorkshire and the Humber between 2018 and 2020 can only expect to live in good health until around 62.1 years, which is significantly lower than people in South East of England.
Women in the North are also more likely to be unpaid carers, with one in five women aged 55-59 providing care to a family member due to illness, disability, or other issues. They also face economic disparities, earning less than women in other regions, which impacts their overall quality of life.
What happens next?
North Yorkshire Council are creating a specific plan, with the help of Healthwatch North Yorkshire, to improve women’s health across the county and enhance their quality of life. This is why your participation in shaing your views - as a woman, is vital. By sharing your views, experiences, and ideas, you help us shape new systems that truly meet the needs of women and girls in our community.
The findings from this survey will provide us with a deeper understanding of the health-related needs of women in North Yorkshire. They will highlight priority areas for action and further research, ensuring that our efforts are focused where they are most needed. Please take a moment to share your experiences and ideas with us, so we can work together to create a healthier future for all women in North Yorkshire.
How to take part
The North Yorkshire Council survey closed in December 2024, but you can still share your views with Healthwatch:
You can also call 01423 788 128 or email hello@hwny.co.uk
"We want women to live safe and healthy lives and we want them to feel heard in their health and wellbeing needs."
