New organisation sought to become 'patient champions'

New organisation sought to become ‘patient champions’

Local people and patients could have a stronger voice in shaping and improving health and social care services in the city, with the creation of Bristol Healthwatch.

Next week (4th July), Bristol City Council’s Cabinet is considering agreeing the procurement of a single contract with an organisation to act as the local Healthwatch provider.

The contract, worth £500,000, will be for an organisation to take a lead on promoting public and patient involvement in improving local health services, talking to communities about their needs, monitoring health and social care services, preparing reports and recommendations and carrying out visits into hospitals and registered care homes.

The service will also provide information to patients, advising on options to support patient choice.

Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health, Cllr Glenise Morgan, said:

“We want more adults, parents and carers who use our GP surgeries, hospitals, home care, or day centres to feel fully involved in shaping improvements for the future. Healthwatch will have an important role on the Health and Wellbeing Board and the new social enterprise will help advise the Care Quality Commission on issues they feel need monitoring or investigating.

“This is planned to be a completely open procurement process so we can attract the best expertise available, particularly to ensure that black and minority ethnic groups, people with disabilities and children all have a voice.”

If approved by Cabinet, it is intended that the contract will be let by December to enable the new organisation to be up and running by April 2013. 

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Notes for Editors

1. All local authorities are required to set up local Healthwatch organisations to replace Local Involvement Networks following the passing of the Health and Social Care Bill.