Doncaster West PCT

Working with travellers for Play bus as part of the Sure Start Scheme.

One traveller representative was on the operational planning group from early 2003 when the planning started. That developed into a Parents Forum and travellers are still involved.

The project was funded through SRB 6 Objective and as such is required to evaluate and account rigorously for public money. In addition there is an Education Employment Sub Group which has 50/50 parent-professional membership who evaluate the scheme.

The bus is 'wheeled out' frequently by the PCT to use as an example of patient involvement

The PCT have a regular column in the local paper and this has been used to publicise/communicate the success of the scheme.

A conference in Autumn 2004 called 'Ask me don't tell me' illustrated the engagement of patients and the public. Patients talk at such conferences about their experiences of involvement.

The project feels the critical factors for success are:

• Listen- really listen to the community

• Involve them in developing the project -this gives ownership

• Don't ask what they want - they often don't know - start with what is wrong with what we do now

• Keep people on board

Contact Details:

Pam Ley
01302708741
jeanette.Miller@sheffieldn-pct.nhs.uk