What is a Cluster?

CHGN promotes cluster formation. A cluster is a group of community health programmes based in the same geographical areas which agree to work more closely together for their mutual benefit and strengthening.

The purpose of a cluster?

"To help build relationships amongst faith-based health programmes, working in community health, often in isolated areas, and to encourage the exchange of ideas and resources for mutual benefit."

CHGN recognises that many health networks exist, and we do not want to duplicate what is already working effectively. However, where these networks do not satisfy the need for building relationships of support amongst Christian health workers, CHGN clusters can offer something fresh.

Cluster communication?

Cluster members can be either projects or individuals. There are no hard and fast rules of engagement, but cluster members are encouraged to keep in regular communication with each other through email, mobile phones, events, and meetings. So ideally, Cluster members must:

• be willing to engage with other cluster members and to become members of CHGN (easily done free and on line).
• be motivated to improve the standard of health programmes in their region
• believe in the value of community health practices, and the training / empowerment of community-level health workers
• adhere to the core values of CHGN
• be committed to a holistic approach to healthcare, and willing therefore to help address the social, environmental, economic and spiritual causes of ill health