LINKS
To receive a presentation on the development of Haringey LINk from a representative of the Shaw Trust, in their role as host organisation for the LINk.
Minutes:
The Committee received a presentation from Peter Durrant of the Shaw Trust on the Haringey Local Involvement Network (LINk). It was noted that LINks had replaced Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) Forums and had a wider remit that included social care as well as health care, as well as statutory powers of inspection and receipt of information on request. It was emphasised that a strong working relationship between the LINk and the Overview and Scrutiny Committee would be essential, and it was suggested that the possibility of inviting a representative from the Haringey LINk onto the Committee be explored.
The Committee asked about the current structure of the Haringey LINk, and it was reported that current membership consisted of self-nominated members, largely drawn from former members of the PPI Forums and community groups, with a steering group supported by a number of small working groups. It was intended that structure and governance arrangements would be firmly established in the coming months, and that membership of the LINk would then be expanded further by actively visiting community groups to find out what the LINk could offer them and how they would like to be involved. It was clarified that handling complaints was not within the remit of the LINk, as this was the role of the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS), but that feedback gathered by the LINk would be used to identify priority issues. The Committee requested further information on the accountability of the LINk.
The Committee asked about the LINk’s involvement in the issue of neighbourhood health centres. The LINk had not been specifically asked to contribute, but it was likely that a specific group to look at this issue might be established once membership had been expanded. It was reported that minutes were available on the LINk website www.communityvoicesonline.org which was in the process of being developed and would eventually be promoted at community access points.
The Committee expressed thanks to Peter Durrant for his presentation.
RESOLVED
i) That the presentation and answers to questions be noted.
ii) That the Committee be provided with additional information on the respective accountability of the LINk and the Shaw Trust outside the meeting.