I’d like to share a co-authored article with Leanne McBride (Chance 2 Change), Dr Marianne McCallum (a Deep End GP and Researcher at the University of Glasgow), Colette Mason (Community Links Worker manager) and Frazer Devine (Men Matter Scotland). It has been published in BJGP Life and will appear in the British Journal for General Practitioners in March 2025. The opinion piece highlights some critical insights gathered during a Deep End project workshop on the importance of meaningful community engagement and effective health systems. A visual note I created following the workshop is featured and you can see it at the top of this journal entry.
The article emphasises the importance of community engagement and the role of healthcare professionals in creating supportive environments. It highlights how understanding the unique challenges faced by marginalised populations can lead to more effective healthcare solutions.
Leanne MacBride of Chance 2 Change is an incredible powerhouse who works in Drumchapel, Glasgow. She spoke about the importance of fostering genuine relationships with patients; recognising them as people who deserve to be valued and seen. I captured the key themes in her talk, such as the need for empathy, active
listening and the call to address systemic barriers in healthcare. Together Leanne, Marianne and I refined the graphics to reflect the powerful message – that we must prioritise community voices.
A heartfelt thank you to Leanne, Marianne, Colette and Frazer for their collaboration on this project. As we look forward to the publication of our article next week, which reaches international audiences, I hope it sparks further discussions on advocating for inclusive healthcare practices.
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The British Journal of General Practice is an international journal, edited by Dr Euan Lawson, publishing research, debate and analysis and clinical guidance for family practitioners and primary care researchers worldwide. The journal is sent to over 50,000 clinicians and researchers each month.
The BJGP is the world-leading primary care journal. Full details about the BJGP are available at the main journal website: BJGP.org. You can access all the research articles and there are many other editorials, analysis and clinical practice articles to read.
