Maidenhead & Windsor

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough is looking to involve the public more effectively in shaping health and social services with the launch of a local involvement network (LINk).

LINk – which comes into effect on April 1 – is a network of individuals, voluntary groups, societies and communities who want to make care services better in the borough.

LINks provide a flexible way for Windsor and Maidenhead residents and communities to engage with health and social care organisations, and replace patient and public involvement forums which were a first step in getting more people involved in the provision of health services.

They have been designed by the Department of Health to provide a stronger voice for local people in the planning, design or redesign, commissioning, and provision of health and social care services in their area.

Cllr John Story, lead member for adult services, said: "While the council will provide the administrative structure and government the funding, LINk will be independent of the council and the NHS.

"I would strongly encourage interested parties to get involved. It is their opportunity to have a real influence on how care services – including mental health, maternity, hospital services and care at home – are planned, developed and managed. They will also be able to give their views through service user surveys and questionnaires."

An information evening will take place at the Town Hall, St Ives Road, Maidenhead, on Wednesday January 30 at 6.30pm. Light refreshments will be available. Places can be booked by calling Christine Perkin on 01628 683709 or by emailing christine.perkin@rbwm.gov.uk

Further information can also be found at www.dh.gov.uk/patientpublicinvolvement

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead