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Community Engagement Panel

Help make NHS services better

Our Community Engagement Panel brings together patients, carers and people from local communities who want to help improve NHS services.

We have around 25 members. Everyone brings their own skills, ideas and life experiences.

You do not need to have worked for the NHS. You do not need any special skills or training. We want to hear from people who care about local NHS services and want to make a difference.

What services do we work with?

We work with teams across the Trust. This includes:

  • Mental health services
  • Community services and hospitals
  • Children and young people's services
  • Learning disability services
  • Sexual health services
  • Emergency dental services

How does the panel work?

We usually meet online once a month using Microsoft Teams.

We also meet in person about twice a year.

Our meetings are friendly and informal. You can share as much or as little as you want. There is no need to have any NHS experience.

We want to hear from people with different experiences, views and ideas.

We are currently recruiting new members

Are you over 18 and do you live or work in Herefordshire or Worcestershire?

Would you like to get involved?

Email katherine.wood4@nhs.net  to find out more.

What do panel members do?

We meet once a month to:

  • Share our views and experiences
  • Talk about ideas from NHS staff
  • Give feedback on plans and services
  • Work with staff to make services better
  • Review information for patients and carers
  • Take part in projects, groups and training
  • Help with staff recruitment

One project our members have worked on is health literacy . This is about making NHS information easier to find, understand and use. Members review letters, leaflets and other information to make sure they are clear and easy to read.

Panel members can also join other NHS projects, groups and boards. This helps make sure that the views of patients, carers and local people are part of the work we do.

Why join us?

People join the panel for lots of different reasons.

You might want to:

  • Find out more about how the NHS works
  • Give something back to your local NHS
  • Use your experience to help other people
  • Support your own wellbeing
  • Learn new skills
  • Meet new people
  • Help improve services that matter to you

Whatever your reason for joining, your views can make a difference.

What do our members say?

 

“I have found volunteering with the Trust very rewarding. I have had the chance to learn new skills and take part in committees, work groups and staff interviews.”

Gordon, panel member

“CEP was a great fit for me. It gave me a chance to use my skills in a relaxed setting. It helped me build my confidence and gave me a sense of purpose. I also met some lovely people along the way.”

Clare, panel member

“I have found it very interesting and enjoy hearing from guest speakers. Online meetings are a great way to take part, and I have been made very welcome.”

Christina, panel member

Other ways to get involved

You do not have to join the panel to have your say.

Visit our Get Involved page to find other ways you can share your views and help improve NHS services.

Frequently asked questions

 How do I sign up? 

You will need to complete the Volunteering Registration Form. This will then be emailed to Kathryn.richards3@nhs.net who will support you with the paperwork required.

 

How will volunteering help me?

Volunteering can help improve both your physical and mental health. It can improve wellbeing, increase happiness, reduce loneliness and ease depression. It can also support people going through life transitions. We can support further learning with a range of training opportunities.

 

Do I have to be a current patient/service user?

No. Many of our participation partners and volunteers aren’t current patients/service users.

 

What age do I have to be?

You would need to be over 16 to get involved or volunteer within most of our opportunities. But, we have a youth board for those aged 14-25.

 

How much time do I need to give?

Each volunteering role is different. But most need you to be able to do least 3 hours per month. When you contact us, we can help pick the right role for you. 

 

Will I be paid? 

Most of our participation partners are not paid for their time.

We pay for your expenses, such as travel or parking.

A small number of volunteers are offered payments if certain criteria is met within the role description. This includes certain strategic, decision-making roles that involve accountability and leadership. These roles are clearly identified and advertised to all participation partners when available.

 

Will I be trained?

Yes, we have a full induction and training process.

There will be an induction to your specific role so that you are confident in what we are asking you to do.

 

Once I start how will I be kept in touch with?

All participation partners will receive a newsletter via their email. This will include updates on news and opportunities across the Trust.

You will also be given a manager or supervisor when you start. 

 

What happens if I become unwell, or don’t want to continue with my role?

Please do not worry as we fully understand that this may happen. You can opt out at any point or take a break.

 

 

If you are interested, contact us for a chat at whcnhs.volunteers@nhs.net or call Kate Richards on 07849 308546.