Caithness campaigner set for online rural healthcare event
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Caithness campaigner Ron Gunn is to take part in an online discussion exploring the state of rural healthcare in Scotland.
He is one of three key speakers lined up for the session entitled “How’s Your Rural Health?" to be hosted by Scottish Rural Action on Wednesday, April 24.
Scottish Rural Action is a charity that seeks to build “a grassroots-led rural movement that connects rural communities with each other and with politicians and decision-makers”.
The 90-minute discussion will provide insights from healthcare practitioners, community campaigners and the public.
Mr Gunn is chairman of Caithness Health Action Team, having got involved in the group after its day of action in 2017 in support of local hospital services. Other speakers are Dr Gordon Baird, representing the Galloway Community Hospital Action Group, and Neil Campbell, representing Portree and Braes Community Council and NHS SOS.
Organisers point out that it might take a round trip of almost 800 miles, and a non-stop drive of 17 hours, to visit all three of the key speakers, but they share common ground in their experiences of the healthcare system.
The event will also involve staff from the newly established National Centre for Remote and Rural Health and Care.
Christine Fairbairn, engagement and membership lead at Scottish Rural Action, said: “Rural communities face unique challenges when it comes to accessing healthcare. This event aims to shine a light on these challenges.
“There might be many miles between Ron, Neil and Gordon but much of their communities’ experiences are the same, and we also want to give a platform for discussion to those who may be in a similar position elsewhere in rural Scotland. Ultimately, we’d like to drive positive change in rural healthcare provision.”
The discussion takes place from noon until 1.30pm on the 24th. Those wishing to take part can register through Eventbrite or email christine@sra.scot for further information.
