Health Minister Mike Nesbitt today unveiled a large-scale, innovative engagement programme, 'This is our Health', aimed at creating a clear, shared and credible deal between people in Northern Ireland and the health and social care system.

The Minister took part in an event in Newtownabbey this morning, meeting participants and listening to their experiences and priorities.

Emphasising a change in approach, Minister Nesbitt said: "This is not a typical public health campaign or survey. We won't be telling people what we think they should do, they will be telling us, and that's a significant shift. 'This is our Health' is very much part of our Reset Plan and links well with the Neighbourhood Model of care and the need to change and develop the relationship between people and the health service. These conversations will help us shape a more sustainable, responsive and effective health and social care system." The initiative is a central element of the Minister's prevention strategy in the Reset Plan, reflecting the 'People to Partners' shift. It will identify what matters most to the public from health services and the role individuals can play in helping those services work better.

Minister Nesbitt continued: "Our healthcare resources are limited, demand is rising and care is becoming more complex. Through 'This is our Health' people will be telling us what things help them stay well for longer, what they want the health service to guarantee, and in turn what they could do to help protect services going forward. So, freeing up capacity and protecting vital services will be important outcomes."

Running in every county across Northern Ireland between now and the end of June, the programme will feature in-person engagement in public spaces and with community and voluntary groups. People can also contribute via digital and social media channels and by completing a short online questionnaire.

Further details, including upcoming locations and ways to take part, are available at thisisourhealth.org.uk/.