Central Liverpool PCT

Multi-lingual link workers involved patients in developments - focused on upgrading of Princes Park Health Centre. The link workers made themselves aware of the issues that concern local residents from minority and diverse populations to ensure that the redevelopment of the Princes Park Health Centre fully included local people. There are 25-30 languages spoken in the catchment area.

There are 14 health link workers in the locality and all live in the area. They have local knowledge and awareness, building up trust and confidence in an ongoing close relationship with local people. This enables people to feel comfortable about being involved.

Patients were involved in consultation at a very early stage along with all key stakeholders.

The project feels the critical factors for success are:

•  Keep it simple - use very basic language

•  Listen and feedback

•  Make the relationship equal

• Consultation must to be sensitive to population needs - e.g. venues etc.

• Explain fully all the processes.
• Organisational commitment in the PCT is essential

Contact Details:

Yvonne Nugent
0151 2854384
yvonne.nugent@centralliverpoolpct.nhs.uk