UCL collaboration with Brent Borough awarded funding to tackle health disparities

The project has successfully received funding from the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) to tackle health disparities through social innovation. Dr Maria Kett has previously undertaken extensive applied research with a focus on humanitarian settings, global health, human rights, the impact of climate change, poverty alleviation, education, and the consequences of social exclusion.

Addressing systemic health inequalities

This project will work in collaboration with Brent Borough Partnership. It seeks to understand how community assets and community participation can be leveraged to address systemic health inequalities in the London Borough of Brent.

Making the most of local resources

The collaboration is part of a wave of Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) funded research projects to investigate the role of community assets such as parks and galleries in improving health outcomes. The projects are funded as part of the second phase of the £26 million UKRI Mobilising Community Assets to Tackle Health Inequalities investment. This multi-year research programme is funded primarily by AHRC and aims to use existing local resources to create a fairer and healthier society.

Creating impact for the whole community 

Ensuring people’s lived experiences are at the heart of the project is key. This phase of the work is focused on engaging with the community to understand what assets would have the most impact and why, with a long-term aim of benefitting those living in Brent.

Dr Kett said: “I’m excited to use UCL’s expertise to help alleviate inequalities in Brent Borough. Not only will we work with Brent to address immediate community needs, but the new methods we develop also have the potential to provide a blueprint for the way community assets are used beyond the borough.”

Links

• UKRI research project announcement
• Dr Maria Kett’s academic profile
• Research Department of Epidemiology & Public Health

Image 

• Image credit: UCL Media Services