Health Minister Mike Nesbitt today launched a new large scale and innovative engagement programme designed to establish a clear, shared, and credible deal between Northern Ireland’s citizens and the health and social care system. The Minister visited the Lesley Abbeycentre in Newtownabbey this morning to take part in a ‘This is our health’ event and to hear the views of individuals. Commenting Minister Nesbitt said we all need to consider a different approach when it comes to building a healthier, more resilient Northern Ireland. “This is not a typical public health campaign or survey. We won

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is marking Global Intergenerational Week (GIW) by celebrating the vital role that connections between generations play in improving health, wellbeing and community resilience across Northern Ireland. Taking place from 24 to 30 April 2026, GIW connects 14 country leads for a global campaign bringing together individuals, community groups, organisations and governments to champion intergenerational practice and highlight the value of creating opportunities for younger and older people to connect, share experiences and learn from one another. Dianne McIntyre

The mum of a toddler who tragically died of meningitis is urging parents to get their children vaccinated against the strain which he contracted. Maureen Ellson from Dundonald is supporting the Public Health Agency (PHA) call this World Immunisation Week (24-30 April) for people to be aware of the importance of vaccination in fighting deadly diseases and for all those who are eligible for vaccination to take up the offer. Maureen, who is an Ambassador for Meningitis Research Foundation, was mum to David, who passed away at the age of two. She said: “My son David died from meningococcal

The Public Health Agency (PHA) has confirmed that the 2026 COVID-19 spring vaccination programme will get under way from Monday 20 April, giving the more vulnerable members of our community the opportunity to top up their protection ahead of any potential waves of COVID-19 over the coming months. This year’s spring vaccine will be offered to: adults aged 75 years old or over; residents in a care home for older adults; individuals aged 6 months and over who are immunosuppressed, as defined in COVID-19: the green book, chapter 14a. Rachel Spiers, Senior Commissioning Lead for Immunisations at