My Journey as Health Ambassador with Groundwork London: North Central Cancer Alliance Public Awareness Campaign Project - Farah Josephs (January 2025)
My primary focus as Health Ambassador with Groundwork London has been to identify disparities in access to health services and engage with communities in Barnet to improve health literacy and reduce barriers to achieving better health outcomes.
I began this journey in October 2022 while the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic were still disproportionately impacting some groups. In partnership with Public Health colleagues, I developed and delivered bespoke, interactive workshops that addressed people’s concerns and barriers to the uptake of Covid-19 and other vaccines.
Promoting health and wellbeing in the community
One of my key focus areas has been children’s immunisation, a priority that continues to drive my work. I regularly visit early years’ centres to share essential information about the importance of vaccination. In these sessions, families share experiences, ask questions and discuss their concerns in a friendly, non-judgmental environment.
As well as immunisation, I cover a broad range of health and wellbeing topics emphasising prevention over cure. This includes healthy lifestyle choices and helping individuals to navigate medical services, such as registering with a GP or booking appointments.
Raising awareness of cancer screening
Since January 2024, I have been involved in supporting the North Central London (NCL) Cancer Alliance campaign project. The project is working with voluntary, community and social enterprise (VSCE) organisations to localise and amplify the three national and regional cancer screening campaigns. Part of the aim is to effectively engage our diverse population across Barnet through various channels including taking part in events (e.g. Age UK’s Silver Sunday) and running dedicated sessions (e.g. ‘Wear it Pink’ at Burnt Oak Leisure Centre).
In Phase 1 we focussed on the Help Us Help You: Reducing Cancer Barriers Campaign (Jan-April 2024) and encouraged people to seek medical help early for symptoms that may be suggestive of cancer. In Phase 2 we focussed on a Breast Screening Awareness campaign (mid Sept – Dec 2024) and raised awareness about the signs and symptoms of breast cancer for women. We are currently in the final phase which focuses on amplifying the Help Us Help You: Reducing Cancer Barriers Campaign (Jan – March 2025), addressing barriers and encouraging people to contact their GP if they experience concerning signs.
The importance of attending cancer screenings
Throughout each campaign, we have emphasised the importance of attending screenings when invited. The goal is to increase early diagnosis rates, which can significantly improve treatment outcomes. Sharing lived experiences in sessions has been invaluable:
“After experiencing pain on my right side, I quickly visited my GP who referred me for tests at the Royal Free Hospital. I was pleasantly surprised to receive an appointment within days. A number of tests were carried out on the same day and I was relieved to be given the all clear. The medical staff were extremely helpful and kind. I urge everyone to seek medical help straight away if they notice unusual symptoms. There may be nothing to worry about but early diagnosis can save lives.” (Session participant)
Bridging the digital divide
In today’s digital age, accessing health-related information online is vital. To help bridge the digital divide I have also delivered workshops at BOOST, Babyzone, and the Five Bells Computer Club with a focus on accessing health resources online. Providing one-on-one practical support on using tools like the NHS App has been highly effective. During these sessions I am also able to promote key health priorities and campaigns by demonstrating how to access relevant information online.
My Health Ambassador journey has been, and continues to be, highly rewarding. Whether supporting at events, leading workshops, or offering one-to-one guidance, my aim has always been to make a positive difference. Through sharing and listening, teaching and learning, I hope to make health services more accessible and less daunting for everyone.
Find out more about some of the health topics mentioned:
- NHS: vaccinations and when to have them
- Cancer awareness, screening and prevention
- Could you be a Health Ambassador like Farah? Apply today!
- Explore Your Health Barnet for resources, advice and local services.