Run by University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust (UHL), in partnership with the University of Leicester (UoL) and Novartis, Together We Can 2026: A Summit for Health Equality, brought colleagues together to share proven, practical approaches and tools that support better outcomes for those facing the greatest barriers to accessing healthcare services in LLR.

UHL's director for health equality and inclusion, Dr Ruw Abeyratne, said: ‘The latest Together We Can summit demonstrates our ongoing commitment to creating a more equitable healthcare system for the region, and to tackling the unfair, avoidable health inequalities which affect some of our most vulnerable patients.

‘The voice of our communities was threaded through the entire event, and the relationships between partners which have been created and strengthened today will make a real difference to outcomes for patients in the future.'

To provide inspiration, speakers showcased a range of projects that are making a difference for patients in LLR. A panel then debated the topic: ‘This house believes that health inequalities can be addressed with existing resources and skillsets'.

Colleagues also gathered for group sessions to explore a wide range of topics, including addressing inequalities in cancer care, anti-racism approaches in maternity, and culturally responsive practice in end-of-life care.