Lewisham launches second Health Equity Teams cycle

The second cycle of Lewisham's celebrated Health Equity Teams programme was launched at Catford House this month.

After being welcomed by Dr Catherine Mbema MBE, Director of Public Health, Dr Aaminah Verity, Community of Practice Lead for Health Equity in Lewisham, introduced each team, who spoke passionately about their respective projects.

The event opened with a powerful spoken word performance by Amaarah Roze, whose piece explored themes of equity, everyday injustice and collective action. Reflecting on what “the revolution” looks like in daily life, her words set the tone for a morning rooted in lived experience, honesty and hope. 

We also heard from Esther Onyeka, Public Affairs and Policy Manager at the Caribbean and African Health Network (CAHN), presented the Black Health Improvement Framework, highlighting the persistent health inequalities experienced by Black communities and the need for system-wide, anti-racist approaches grounded in community leadership.

Running until March 2027, this cycle deepens our commitment to tackling cardiovascular inequalities among Black and underserved communities in the borough.

Dr Mbema said:

“The Health Equities Programme shows what is possible when we bring together clinical expertise, community leadership and the lived experiences of our residents. In Lewisham, we are committed to redesigning systems so everyone has the same access to healthcare and the chance to live long, healthy lives.”

Read more on the Lewisham website