The position paper, Understanding the charity and local community sector in regional NSW, shares key findings and opportunities for enhanced collaboration between charities and local community groups and NSW Health.
The Regional Health Division engaged in research and consultation to build an understanding of the charities and local community groups in regional NSW and their approaches to collaboration. Consultation occurred over 12 months and the findings were validated through a review of state, national and international literature, case studies.
It is important to share these findings and opportunities to recognise the integral role of charities and local community groups within the complex Australian health system and propose a way forward for advocacy and support.
Keeping communities informed, building engagement and seeking feedback is a priority of the NSW Regional Health Strategic Plan 2022-2032 which is a roadmap for the future provision of health services that understands, and celebrates, the diverse and unique nature of regional communities.
The Regional Health Division acknowledges the valuable contributions of charities and local community groups, local councils, primary health organisations, and staff from regional local health districts and NSW Health entities in the development of this paper.
