West Lancashire

West Lancashire has a number of good examples of patient involvement. The PCT hold the view that they need to ask what would help you to get involved. What are we missing that would help you become engaged? The PCT listen and do something to demonstrate that they listen.

Projects and initiatives are discussed at senior management level meetings to gain approval. Then the raw idea is taken out to patients. These are then adapted and changed in the light of patient feedback.

At all PCT events there is a tick box form to ask patients if they want to get more involved in their local NHS - this is also in all PCT publications.

There is an annual health 'fayre' where the public are asked if they wish to become more involved.

A Community Award scheme ensures regular and constant feedback and celebration/evaluation of projects.

These events also allow useful networking between voluntary groups and PCT staff and managers.

The project feels the critical factors for success are:

•  Senior level approval

•  Demonstrate that you have listened

•  Talk to the public and patient where they are - don't ask them to come to you

• PPI is a continual process

Contact Details:

Maureen Kirwan
01695 598075
Maureen.kirwan@westlancspct.nhs.uk