The LINk Service

“Better Care Through a Stronger Voice”

Background

• LINks are being set up all over the country

• Designed to give communities a stronger voice

• Replaces PPI Forums

• LINks will bring together local people and groups

The Role of a LINk

• Support more people to get involved in shaping local care services

• Actively canvas all sections of the community to gain views and experiences of services

• Provide the community with a mechanism for monitoring and reviewing local care services

• Let commissioners and others know what people have recommended to help improve services

What does a Link do and what powers does it have?

• Ask local people what they think of health and social care

• Give people an opportunity to suggest ideas that may help improve services

• Request information and receive a response within a specified timescale

• Look into specific issues of concern, make recommendations and get answers

• Visit premises/services to see what they do and gain views and experiences of service users

• Refer matters to Overview and Scrutiny Committee

Who Can Be Involved in LINks?

• Anyone – • Carers, service users, community leaders,

patients representatives

Everyone’s views matter• Groups can also join – charities, faith groups,

resident’s associations, youth councils, BME organisations

Anyone who wants to make sure that the needs of their community are listened to

What is Happening in Merton

• MVSC appointed as host

• Steering Group being established

• Awareness Raising meetings taking place

• Publicity being widely circulated

Why get involved?

• It is an opportunity to:

• Raise your issues higher on the agenda of the statutory sector

• Talk to those who make decisions about new or existing services

• Join forces with others concerned about the same issues

• Hold service providers to account on behalf of your clients/members

What next?

• Complete registration card

• Questions, comments, issues