Shaping a fairer future for genomic-based health in North Thames - Focus group invite & Survey

Genomic testing is highlighted in the new NHS 10-year Plan as an important tool that can support and transform healthcare. It can help in many areas, for example, by tailoring treatments to a person’s individual genetic makeup. To make this possible locally, the NHS is planning to set up Population Genomic Medicine Services across different neighbourhoods.

The NHS North Thames Genomic Medicine Service (NTGMS) and the NHS Race and Health Observatory (RHO) are working together to build a new, community co-designed Genomics Health Hub; read more here - New Online Health Hub To Tackle Inequalities in Genomic Healthcare - NHS – Race and Health Observatory. This online resource aims to make genomics - the study of genes and health - understandable and accessible for everyone. Currently, unequal access to information and under-representation in data mean many minoritised ethnic communities miss out on potential health benefits.

The NTGMS are seeking to partner with local VCFSE organisations across the North Thames region. Your expertise and the lived-experiences of local communities across the North Thames will help the NTGMS to engage a diverse range of voices through focus groups and surveys, ensuring the Hub is designed with and for the public; helping to build trust, integrate an awareness of genomics into communities and reduce, not exacerbate, health inequities. 

If your organisation would like to help shape this important resource, please contact:

Shazia Mahamdallie (NTGMS Health Equity Lead) - Shazia.Mahamdallie@gosh.nhs.uk

Iyinoluwa Oshinowo (Community Engagement and Research Officer) - Iyinoluwa@swlhealthwatch.org.uk ”

 

SURVEY: Your Thoughts on Genomics: NHS NTGMS 

The North Thames Genomic Medicine Service (NTGMS) is co-creating a new Genomics Health Hub to support people across the North Thames region.

One major aim of the Hub is to make information about genomics and health clearer, fairer, and easier to access, so that communities can have the opportunity to benefit from advances in genomic healthcare.

This short survey asks for your thoughts on different explanations of genomics and genetics.

Your responses will help shape the final design of the hub and ensure that it reflects the needs, languages, and experiences of our diverse communities.

Please take a few minutes to share your views (no prior knowledge of genomics is required): Your Thoughts on Genomics: NHS NTGMS”