Whose voice should be heard in health and social care? #SVscot14

How do we make sure patient and user voices are included in health and social care services?

I’ve been at the @StrongerVoice events in the last couple of weeks, making video and audio clips to capture what people think, as part of a wider programme to come up with a new policy on the subject.

It’s not easy question and there will be as many answers as there are people. I’ve met some really interesting people who had loads to say. But for every good point I’ve heard, I’ve thought of another person who wasn’t in the room who would have something more to add. I’m really lucky in my work that I meet people every day who have so much to say about health and wellbeing.

Not everyone wants to go along to these events. Some of us don’t have time, or we’re not well enough, or we’re just not interested. But all of us have a stake in healthcare. We’ve all been unwell, or had babies, or seen our parents and grandparents rely on social care. We all need to have a say. I’m particularly keen that the voices of people with lived experience of mental ill health are heard, but hey- I’m biased.

Of course, the system for including voices isn’t perfect- that’s the whole point. This is a chance to speak up and let the Cabinet Secretary  @AlexNeilSNP know how they can do it better. So, it might be too late to go along to an event, but you can still be involved.

• Until Wednesday October 15, you can complete their online survey.
• On Wednesday 16 October from 2-3pm , join their twitter chat using the hashtag #SVscot14
• Get creative. They’re a lovely bunch and they’re on twitter under @strongervoice . Make a video, draw a picture, send a pigeon. Whatever you do, do it soon.

This is a post from our Project Manager, Rosie McIntosh @rosiehopes