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Getting involved in Local Involvement Networks (LINks). Andy Harrison. Long Term Conditions Alliance. LTCA is the umbrella body for national voluntary organisations in the UK working to meet the needs of people with long-term health conditions
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Getting involved inLocal Involvement Networks(LINks) Andy Harrison Long Term Conditions Alliance
LTCA is the umbrella body for national voluntary organisations in the UK working to meet the needs of people with long-term health conditions Our Mission:To ensure people affected by long-term conditions have access to the services and support they need and can be active participants in determining their care. LTCA is also a member of the consortium that makes up the NHS Centre for Involvement (NCI).
Presentation Summary • What is a LINk? • Why get involved in the local LINk? • How can we get involved? • More information
What is a LINk? A strong community voice that can influence commissioning of local health and care services
What is special about LINks? • Creative – building on existing networks and partnerships • Flexible – enabling different methods of participation, both from individuals and groups • Powerful – having legal powers to require information from commissioners and providers of services, and to receive a response to comments
A LINk is a network that is made up of many groups and individuals, for example … Carers Network Neighbourhood renewal network Youth Council Local Strategic Partnership Individuals Individuals Foundation Trust Governors Patients Transport Groups LINk Tenants Groups Local business groups Minority Ethnic Groups Patient Groups Older People’s Forum Individuals Individuals Faith Groups Support Groups for Specific Service Users
A successful LINk will be owned, developed and shaped by groups, organisations and individuals at grass-roots level. LINks were established from 1 April 2008.
Why get involved in the local LINk? LINks create opportunities to … • influence the commissioning of health and care service • get our issues higher on the agenda of the statutory sector • give members a louder, stronger voice • make use of the legal powers of LINks for the benefit of our members • network with other PPI enthusiasts and share knowledge
When can we get involved? • At the beginning – to shape the focus and priorities • When it’s established – to provide members with an amplified voice • When there’s an issue relating to commissioning or provision of services that would benefit from broader input and a louder voice
How can we get involved? • In person • Through events • Through meetings • Electronically • By ‘phone • By letter • On our terms
Where to go for more information • Locally – contact your Local Authority or LINk Host organisation • Documents – www.nhscenterforinvolvement.nhs.uk • LINks Helpdesk e mail – info@LINks.nhs.uk • LINks Helpdesk phone – Tel: 024 7615 0705 • Share information – www.pcx.nhs.uk
Thank you Brenda Cook Voluntary and Community Sector LINks Project Worker Long Term Conditions Alliance (LTCA)