I welcome Gerry McLaughlin's (Health Scotland's CEO) recent message on tackling health inequalities.  Gerry emphasises that to make more than a dent in Scotland' health inequalities, the causes as well as the effects need to be addressed - unequal distribution of power, money and resources.  Actions that require individuals to 'opt-in' to make choices should be replaced by structural changes in regulations and polices in relation to areas such as income, housing and food.  Tackling inequalities should be the concern of all. And more than ever, democratic renewal is required with public services, the third sector and community groups working together effectively to build a vibrant civic society. The Co-Production Network and CHEX Network along with others are in a strong position to support the renewal.  To find out more about Gerry's message - read 'In Brief' here - http://www.healthscotland.com/documents/22086.aspx .  

Janet Muir, Manager of Community Health Exchange (CHEX)