WRDA Calls for Stronger Commitment to Equality and Inclusion in PHA Partnership and Engagement Strategy Consultation
18 December 2025 - The Women’s Resource and Development Agency (WRDA) has responded to the Public Health Agency’s (PHA) Partnership and Engagement Strategy consultation, urging clearer commitments to equality, diversity, and genuine service user involvement.
WRDA welcomed the Strategy’s principles but highlighted concerns about its lack of detail and clarity. The response calls for:
Inclusive Engagement: A stronger intersectional approach to ensure representation of women, people with disabilities, minority ethnic communities, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those facing socio-economic barriers.
Clear Pathways: Transparent definitions of partnerships and networks, with accessible routes for service users to participate.
Action-Oriented Detail: More specific plans within the Strategy, rather than deferring key actions to a later Action Plan.
Valuing Lived Experience: Greater emphasis on service users as “experts by experience” and a commitment to trauma-informed, supportive engagement practices.
Plain Language: Reducing jargon and using clear, accessible language to encourage participation.
WRDA stressed that engagement must go beyond a “tick-box exercise” and include practical steps to address health inequalities and improve retention of service users from marginalised communities.
For further information, contact:
Elaine Crory – elaine.crory@wrda.net
Meghan Hoyt – meghan.hoyt@wrda.net
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