National Volunteer Week brings opportunity to recognise local health advocates

National Volunteer Week celebrates and recognises the vital work of volunteers who are often changing their communities for the better. In the area of health, local communities are represented by volunteer health advocates as members of Local Health Advisory Committees (LHACs) to consider health needs, promote health literacy and wellbeing and provide a voice for planning and evaluation of health services.

During a recent forum facilitated by Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network (MPHN) and Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) held in Temora, LHACs representing communities from across the Murrumbidgee came together to connect and share their activities and experiences in health and discuss strategies to improve health and wellbeing outcomes.

MPHN Senior Manager Primary Care Engagement Andrew Heap said LHACs provide a valuable conduit between the community and health organisations to assist with planning and priority setting.

“LHAC members are all volunteers and give their time and effort all year round to contribute to improving the health and wellbeing of their communities,” Mr Heap said.

“MPHN works closely with the community to understand health needs and LHACS play an important role in this engagement.”

MLHD Executive Services Manager – Communications Setchen Brimson said the LHAC Forum is a vital opportunity for committee members to connect with each other, share ideas and discuss the experiences of their communities.

“The bi-annual forums are an opportunity for us to connect with our volunteer LHAC members and listen to their stories, achievements, and challenges. This collaboration forms the basis of our commitment to work with communities to meet health and wellbeing needs,’ Ms Brimson said.

“LHAC members come from all walks of life and bring a diverse set of perspectives to the conversation about community health needs and improving quality of care.”

Temora LHAC member Wendy McCrone said volunteering to be part of the local health advisory committee is both rewarding and provides an opportunity to make a difference in the community.

“We are all passionate community members who care deeply about improving health outcomes in our respective towns. LHAC members give up their time to listen to community and ensure there is a local voice at the table when developing new strategies and plans,’ Ms McCrone said.

The second LHAC Forum for 2022 will be held in Finley on 26 and 27 September.