One Vision hosts conference on faith, culture and health in Watford

The Faith and Health Conference 2024, organised by One Vision, took place at Stanborough Park Seventh-day Adventist Church.

The event aimed to highlight the importance of a holistic approach to healthcare that respects the diverse cultural and spiritual needs of communities.

The conference featured several presentations from guest speakers including Pastor Jacques Venter, executive secretary for the British Union Conference (BUC); Rabbi Paul Freedman, senior rabbi for Radlett Reform Synagogue; Sarah Perman, director of public health for Hertfordshire County Council; and Catherine Akehurst, assistant chief constable.

The event featured thought-provoking presentations from prominent guest speakers (Image: One Vision) They shared their insights on how faith communities can work with healthcare providers to address some of Hertfordshire's most pressing health challenges.

The conference was attended by a number of dignitaries, including Robert Voss CBE CStJ, the Lord-Lieutenant of Hertfordshire; Annie Brewster JP, the High Sheriff of Hertfordshire; and councillor Terry Douris, chairman of Hertfordshire County Council.

They emphasised the importance of collaboration between the faith, health, and voluntary sectors to create inclusive and accessible healthcare systems.

Enoch Kanagaraj, founder of One Vision, said: "Connecting care to culture is crucial in ensuring we meet people where they are.

"Faith plays a pivotal role in shaping how people approach health, and we must co-produce solutions with our communities to provide truly inclusive care."

Panel discussions were also held, moderated by Sharon Platt-McDonald, director for health at BUC.

The panel included Pastor John Melki (SDA Church), Gopal Bhachu (Harrow Interfaith), Kevin Hallahan (Health Inequalities Lead, NHS Hertfordshire and West Essex ICB), Rumit Shah (President of the Jain Organisation UK), Akhtar Zaman (Chair of the Islamic Centre), Anton Morgan-Thorne (Macmillan Cancer Support), and councillor Favour Ezeifedi.

They discussed the challenges and opportunities for faith-based organisations in improving healthcare access, tackling health inequalities, and building healthier, more resilient communities.

The event featured thought-provoking presentations from prominent guest speakers (Image: One Vision) The One Vision Faith and Health Network said it is committed to fostering long-term partnerships between faith groups, healthcare providers, and community leaders to ensure that the health needs of all communities across Hertfordshire are met with compassion, understanding, and inclusivity.

One Vision is a Watford-based initiative that seeks to build an inclusive community through projects focused on health, education, and social support.

By uniting individuals of all faiths and backgrounds, the charity strives to address the holistic needs of the community, fostering positive and lasting change.

The charity was set up during the Covid-19 pandemic to support people in need during the lockdowns.

It has since grown and now runs a number of initiatives including a community kitchen, a food bank, a community café, a youth club, and a number of community events.

More information about One Vision and its projects can be found on its website, onevision.org.uk.