Member News
27th September 2011
Party conference may not be the best time to check on an individual's health, but Gemma Reay, public affairs officer at the British Heart Foundation, outlines why the charity endeavours to do so.
At the Labour conference, the British Heart Foundation is hosting a Health Bus. What is this and what purpose does it serve?
The British Heart Foundation Health Bus is a really good opportunity for all those at party conference who might want to take a lifestyle check and see how healthy they are.
Party conference may not be the best time to check on an individual's health, but people can go into the bus and get a lifestyle screen, check their BMI and receive health advice, if needed.
We are attempting to promote healthy lifestyles. The bus is on tour throughout the North West, so Liverpool is one of many stops!
What sort of activity is the British Heart Foundation involved in across the three autumn conferences?
This year at the conferences we have been lobbying on the issue of specialist nurses. At Labour conference this week we have been meeting with senior shadow ministers to talk to them about our specialist cardiac nurses and the great job that they do.
We are very keen that specialist nurses are protected during the changes to the NHS. We know that cardiac patients really appreciate their work and we want to ensure that they are able to perform their roles as best as they possibly can.
What has been your highlight of the conferences so far?
Meeting with relevant politicians and talking to them about specialist nurses and cardiac rehab, is always a pleasure.
Last week at the Liberal Democrat conference we met with Paul Burstow.
This week at Labour conference we have me with John Healey, shadow health secretary. He is so on top of his brief.
That has been my undoubted highlight of conference so far.
Next week at Conservative conference we will be meeting with minister for health, Simon Burns.
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