A new scheme to involve the public in the design and improvement of services at Walsall Manor Hospital and in the community has got off to an encouraging start with some “fantastic” potential volunteers coming forward.

Patient Involvement Partners will work alongside Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust leaders and will become ambassadors for patient experience and engagement. A call went out for people to get involved just over two weeks ago.

Garry Perry, Associate Director – Patient Relations & Experience, said: “We are really pleased with the interest that this approach has attracted in a relatively short space of time.

“We’ve already had some fantastic people come forward who can bring a wealth of different skills and knowledge to the role which will really be of benefit to the communities who use our services. Our longer term aim is to set up a Patient Involvement Council which these partners will be instrumental in driving forward and we’re encouraged that the public recognise this is a real opportunity for them to bring about meaningful change for all.”

Garry added that applications can still be made via https://forms.office.com/r/zGwwbaTS3q

He said: “Volunteers need to be dependable and responsible; confident to express their views yet be able to listen to and understand a variety of viewpoints. They will need to be able to read and process papers from relevant meetings and have clear written and verbal communication skills. We need people who are committed to the improvement of healthcare services and motivated to be part of any changes.”

Partners will be asked to contribute in face to face and virtual meetings –COVID-19 guidance will be strictly followed to minimise infection risk during the ongoing pandemic.

Potential applicants will be invited to a selection event or interview where they will be asked why they want to be a volunteer and what skills and expertise they can bring to the role. They will also have the opportunity to ask questions.