Former Nurse urges people to have their say about changes to the NHS
Patients are the experts, each and every one of them has a story to share – whether that’s good or bad
72 year old Sue, from West Sussex, is encouraging others to speak out as part of ‘What Would You do?’, led by independent health and social care champions Healthwatch West Sussex.
Launched last month, the What would you do? campaign aims to encourage people in West Sussex to share their views about how extra money from the Government should be spent on local NHS services.
The Government is investing £20 billion a year in the NHS as part of the NHS Long Term Plan. Local organisations are now being asked to explore how services should change locally to make the NHS work better for people.
Sue said:
By talking and listening to people who have been ill – you get fantastic knowledge and feedback about health services, which we will all have to use at some stage in our lives.
Patients are the experts, each and every one of them has a story to share – whether that’s good or bad. I would encourage others to take part and make sure their voice is heard.
Sue has had plenty of first-hand experience with health and care services in West Sussex, having worked as a nurse for 28 years. She has 5 years’ experience as a supervisor carer, while she cared for her Aunt in Hertfordshire, and has also cared for her mother in Horsham, West Sussex.
People can share their views via an online survey, and by speaking directly to Healthwatch.
We want to hear from as many people as possible about what works, what doesn’t and how they think local health services should be improved
Questions will focus on local services in the following areas Cancer; Mental health; Dementia; Heart and lung conditions and Learning disabilities and autism.
Katrina Broadhill, Manager at Healthwatch West Sussex, added:
The NHS only works when the voices of the people who use it are heard. This is a once in a generation chance for local people to help decide where this extra money from Government should be spent in our NHS services in West Sussex.
We want to hear from as many people as possible about what works, what doesn’t and how they think local health services should be improved. No matter how big or small the issue, we want to hear about it. Sharing your experience with us is quick and easy - and could make a big difference.
Staff and volunteers from Healthwatch West Sussex will be talking to local people throughout the county at local events in March and April and to find out when we will be in an area near you visit our Events Calendar.
