The Department of Health has published the refreshed Making Life Better: Thematic Action Plan (2026), providing a renewed framework for collaborative action to improve health and wellbeing and reduce health inequalities across Northern Ireland. Making Life Better – Thematic Action Plan to Refresh and Reshape Collaborative Action to Improve Health and Reduce Health Inequalities – July 2026 was published on 21 July 2026.
This refresh is particularly relevant for voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations working across health, social care and community wellbeing. The Plan reinforces several areas long championed by the sector, including:
-Recognition of the wider social, economic and environmental factors that influence health outcomes
-A stronger focus on prevention and early intervention
-A commitment to joined-up, cross-sector action to tackle health inequalities and improve wellbeing.
-The importance of partnership working across government, statutory services, local government, communities and the VCSE sector
For NIHC members, the refreshed approach provides a valuable opportunity to demonstrate the contribution that community-based organisations make to improving population health, building community resilience, strengthening social connections, supporting early intervention and reaching those most affected by health inequalities.
The emphasis on collaborative delivery through existing programmes and partnerships aligns strongly with the work already being undertaken by VCSE organisations across Northern Ireland. The Plan also recognises that meaningful progress on health outcomes requires action beyond healthcare services alone, addressing the wider determinants that shape people’s lives and wellbeing. [health-ni.gov.uk], [publicheal….hscni.net]
As implementation progresses, NIHC will continue to advocate for the vital role of the VCSE sector as a strategic partner in delivering healthier communities and reducing inequalities across Northern Ireland.
📖 Read the refreshed plan here: Making Life Better – Thematic Action Plan
