Issue - meetings

The Board considered a report from Healthwatch giving an update on its priorities and new approach to delivery.

The proposed priorities were:

·  Supporting the role of PPGs

·  Local innovation towards improving mental health services

·  Supporting the STP

·  The implementation of your care, your way

Integration of health and social care was also an issue for Healthwatch including the discharge of patients.  The RUH has carried out some good work to review its process for discharge into the community.

Diana Hall Hall highlighted the importance of Healthwatch remaining independent and relevant to the work of the Health and Wellbeing Board.  It was often difficult to recruit lay people to Healthwatch and training would be provided in future for these volunteers to enable them to be more effective in their roles.

Tracey Cox queried whether the Health and Wellbeing Board could help with the support of lay members, for example by meeting with them to talk about the work of the Board.

Councillor Tim Warren informed Healthwatch that there was now a new Cabinet member who had responsibility for volunteers as part of his remit.  He agreed to put Healthwatch in touch with this Cabinet member.

It was RESOLVED to note the Healthwatch report.