Sláintecare Healthy Communities (SHC) continued to make a meaningful difference throughout 2024, reaching more than 10,000 people across Ireland. While the figures show steady growth, it’s the stories behind those numbers that reveal the true value of this work.
At its heart, SHC is about removing barriers to health and wellbeing by meeting people where they are. The fact that over 80% of participants lived within SHC catchment areas highlights the strength of this place-based approach; services are landing exactly where they’re most needed.
Across the programmes offered, Parenting, Healthy Food Made Easy, Social Prescribing and Stop Smoking Services, data shows that SHC is engaging communities who often face greater challenges than the national average. Higher levels of unemployment, long-term health conditions and social isolation among participants underscore the programme’s success in reaching those who may otherwise fall through the cracks.
The clearest message from 2024 is that local connection matters. Whether it’s someone finding support to quit smoking, a parent gaining confidence, or an older person rediscovering a sense of belonging through Social Prescribing, SHC is helping people make positive, lasting changes close to home.
This year’s publication is designed as an overview document, giving you a clear, accessible snapshot of Sláintecare Healthy Communities at a glance. We focused on presenting key statistics through programme-specific infographics. This approach allows the core message to stand out more strongly, showing not just the scale of activity, but the communities reached and the real-world impact behind the numbers.
For a more detailed look at the 2024 activity and findings, click the link to view the complete 2024 Overview document.
You can also view each programme’s infographic individually by clicking the links below: