Lichfield residents are being invited to find out about new proposals for a major shake-up in how health and social care complaints and comments are handled.
New plans include how patient feedback about hospitals, GP surgeries, dentists, social services and beyond could be managed and investigated in a different way, namely by a new independent organisation.
If proposals are passed, Staffordshire will see a change in how the system currently works whereby complaints and feedback are only investigated by the organisation being complained about.
Research has shown that many complaints are either unrecorded or not investigated, which can led to major breeches in safe and quality care. Over a 1,000 people have already completed the online consultation form, but organisers are also holding a consultation event in Lichfield on January 10 for people to have their say.
Staffordshire County Council cabinet member for adults’ wellbeing, Matthew Ellis, said: “There’s been a tremendous response to the public consultation so far but there’s nothing like a face to face discussion about how the proposals are going to affect people in practice.
“This consultation is really important because we know from what people have said so far that most don’t know where to turn to make a complaint, and that public confidence in the complaints process really is low.
“This is about seeing if people want a real change for the better. Anyone who cares about the quality and safety of the care they or a loved one receives should take part in this consultation.
“It is vital that as many people as possible provide their thoughts on whether an independent and transparent people led organisation could help ensure that health and care services in Staffordshire improve and are safe.”
Anyone wanting to attend the event – which takes place at King Edward VI School from 2pm to 4pm on January 10 – must book their place on 01785 277502.
