Northern Ireland Health Minister Robbie Butler has launched The Health Deal, a partnership between the public and the Health and Social Care (HSC) system aimed at improving health and wellbeing.

The deal was developed through the This is Our Health initiative, which engaged with more than 11,000 people of different ages and backgrounds across Northern Ireland. The conversations explored what people want from health services and how personal health and wellbeing affect a system under pressure.

Butler said: "I believe health is a social contract, and it must be something that is done with people, not to them. The Health Deal is an important part of that concept because it recognises that we all have a part to play. We have engaged extensively and we have listened carefully to what the public have had to say – not just in terms of what the health and social care system can do to make things better, but what they feel they can do too.

"We've already spoken to over 11,000 people to help shape The Health Deal. But that's just the start. We all have something to contribute, and I believe lasting, positive changes will come from working better together. The Health Deal is the first step towards that."

The agreement sets out four initial HSC commitments responding to issues raised during the discussions, alongside public suggestions for supporting health and wellbeing. The minister added: "We have heard what people want from the health service and the things they can do to stay well and to look after others – and together, we have made a deal.

"We will play our part by making it easier for people to access appointments when they need them. We will focus on reducing waiting times across the system and we will make it easier for people to cancel appointments they no longer need, helping us cut the number of wasted appointments and reallocate them within our precious capacity. We will also work to make it easier for people to be more active and support healthier lifestyles.

"We have also got a very clear message from members of the public about what role they are up for playing in this deal. It's about taking whatever steps you can to take greater care of yourself and the people in your life. Even small changes - like being more active and spending more time outside with those we care about - can make a big difference when lots of us take those steps together.

"The public are keen to continue this conversation, and this gives me hope for the future. People want a health service that works well and delivers for them, but they also want to play their part in creating healthier lives and healthier communities."

This is Our Health is led by the Department of Health, with support from the Public Health Agency and HSC partners. Its ten-week initiative, also supported by the community and voluntary sector, recorded more than 11,000 responses.