Oldham leaders warn women face growing health inequality as healthy life expectancy falls

Dr Anita Sharma of Endometriosis Awareness North

Dr Anita Sharma of Endometriosis Awareness North and Maria Williams of the CROWN network said they were alarmed by findings in the Healthy Life Expectancy Report, which indicates people in the UK are spending around two fewer years in good health.

They said the gap between richer and poorer areas is also increasing, with women experiencing the greatest impact.

The report places Britain near the bottom of a comparison of 21 leading global economies for healthy life expectancy.

In Oldham, existing inequalities remain stark. Life expectancy in the Alexandra ward is reported to be 13 years lower than in Saddleworth South.

Both leaders said their work in local communities reflects a decline in health linked to poverty, reduced access to services and wider social pressures.

Maria Williams said outreach work through the CROWN initiative has highlighted barriers faced by residents in some neighbourhoods.

She said people are struggling to afford nutritious food, register with a GP and manage mental health issues linked to debt and unemployment.

The CROWN network has organised events focused on issues affecting women’s health including menopause and anxiety, which can impact employment and career progression.

Ms Williams said women often face greater health challenges than men and experience poorer access to treatment.

Dr Sharma, a GP and campaigner, said inequalities in healthcare and wider social conditions are contributing to reduced life expectancy.

She said conditions such as endometriosis, which affects one in ten women, often involve long delays in diagnosis and limited resources.

Dr Sharma also referred to the impact of the COVID pandemic on disadvantaged communities, saying outcomes were worse in poorer areas and among minority groups.

Both women said the Government’s Women’s Health Strategy introduced in 2022 was a positive step but argued that further action is needed.

They said prioritising women’s health and addressing inequalities in poorer communities is essential to improve outcomes.

A forthcoming meeting of the CROWN network is scheduled to take place on 20 May at Spindles Shopping Centre in Oldham, with free entry available to those who register in advance.