Community Engagement

The group reflected on the successful completion of the five-week Age UK digital support sessions at the Haven Centre. Around 35 people attended the final session, and volunteers received a thank-you card from Age UK for their support.

Several attendees expressed interest in becoming more involved with the Patient Participation Group following recent communications, and follow-up contact will be made with those individuals.

The group continues to maintain a number of online communication channels, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and the PPG website, to keep patients informed and engaged.

A recent patient story about Rosie’s kidney cancer journey was shared online, and members discussed encouraging more patients to share experiences that may help others.

Patient Privacy

Members discussed patient privacy at surgery reception areas and shared suggestions for improving the experience for patients. Examples of good practice from other surgeries were discussed, including the use of quieter conversation spaces and improved reception arrangements.

The group agreed to raise these ideas with the practice as potential improvements to support patient confidentiality.

Patient Communication

Members discussed the importance of clear communication with patients, particularly around medical test results and follow-up information.

There was agreement that proactive communication helps reassure patients and supports a better overall patient experience.

The group also discussed opportunities to improve website and social media updates so that patients can more easily access important information.

Digital Inclusion

The practice has received funding to introduce tablets and digital support within surgeries. These will help patients register with services and access digital health tools, with support available from trained digital champions.

The group welcomed this development as an important step in supporting patients who may need help accessing online services.

Community Partnerships

Members highlighted the importance of working with local organisations such as Age UK and digital inclusion charities to strengthen patient support and provide better signposting to community services.

PPG Membership and Participation

The group reported a growing level of interest from patients wishing to join the PPG or support its activities.

Members discussed ways to involve new volunteers, including themed discussions around topics such as hospital referrals, medication reviews, and patient experiences.

The PPG aims to maintain an active committee while encouraging wider participation from interested patients.

Future Topics

Members agreed to include the following topics in future discussions:

• Potential improvements to patient privacy in reception areas
• Enhancing patient communications
• Opportunities for greater collaboration with local community organisations
• Consideration of whether the PPG name should evolve to better reflect its role for patients