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This year’s work programme was delivered against a background of imminent and radical change in health and social care in Northern Ireland.
In 2006/2007 the EHSSC, in its work plan, undertook significant work in community engagement, in complaints advocacy and in looking towards a health and social services where – through a universal duty to engage – individuals and communities will increasingly represent themselves.
The Council chose to focus on a number of key themes in its work programme. These included:
Patient and Public Involvement
Under this heading, Council undertook several pieces of work, including:
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Significant resources to assist the DHSSPS in setting out a role and function for the Patient Client Council, including a wide ranging stakeholder consultation by the Chief Officer.
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A research Project on Patient and Public Involvement, to complement departmental guidance on standards for PPI and to provide an initial resource for HPSS organisations and others.
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Training in Patient and Public Involvement, focussing on the core skills required to deliver effective and meaningful Patient and Public Involvement. |
Mental Health – Suicide and Self-Harm
Mental health has been a major theme for the Council work programme for the past two years. This year the focus was very much on the health service response to suicide and self -harm in North and West Belfast. Actions taken included:
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Engagement with Community Groups. Throughout the year the Council held meetings with community groups dealing with suicide and self-harm in North and West Belfast.
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Advocacy. The Council provided complaints advocacy for several families bereaved or with a family member at risk who were unhappy with the service they received.
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A Council Visit to the Crisis Response Team at the Mater Hospital.
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Representation to the Mater Hospital on arrangements for referral, admission and discharge of mental health emergencies.
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An Open Forum hosted by the Council, with a speech to the Council by the Chair of the Implementation Task Force in the presence of the Council and invited community groups.
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Throughout the year the Council has sought meaningful engagement with individuals and communities to gain insights into people living in difficult circumstances who rely on the support of health and social services. We would like to thank all those who met with the Council and shared their experiences.
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