Burnham open to dialogue with faith sector on healthcare provision

Health Secretary Andy Burnham has invited faith organisations to dialogue with the Government on the future of healthcare provision and care for the elderly in the UK.

Speaking at the Charities Parliament last week, Mr Burnham admitted Labour had not done enough to help the elderly in particular.

The Charities Parliament was attended by faith and third sector workers, including representatives of Age Concern and FaithAction.

He told them: “Make me an offer. Tell me what you are bringing to the table. Then we can start a dialogue between the department of health, the voluntary sector and faith organisations.”

He acknowledged the Government would have to draw on the voluntary sector if it was to improve the healthcare system.

“If we don’t act now when will the chance come again?” he said.

Steve Chalke, founder of Christian social action charity Oasis, said the church and voluntary sectors had a part to play in filling the gaps of a “patchy” healthcare system.

“What can we do to get more involved?” he said.

Charities Parliament director Pete Brierley said the role of the faith and third sectors would be critical in finding a way forward in better healthcare provision.

He added that Mr Burnham’s pledge to consider partnership should encourage more proactive input from the faith and third sector.

He said the Charities Parliament planned to take the health secretary up on his promise by working with partners across the UK to present ideas and possible solutions to the Government.

The pledge coincided with the launch of a new £1 million Government fund last week to go towards the work of faith groups in delivering public services.

The fund can also be used by faith organisations to train their staff and cover the costs of fundraising activities.