Introduction

The Patients' Council Concept

The Patients' Council is a voluntary body established under the direction of the Surrey and Sussex NHS Trust Board. At present, it comprises 17 members drawn from the communities in the catchment area served by the Trust. It was founded to ensure that patients are involved in how the Trust and related services will be streamlined, developed and improved to the benefit of patients, relatives, visitors and, in fact, all stakeholders using this NHS Trust.

The Patients' Council is kept well-informed by the Trust about any proposed changes in services which could affect patients; is advised about contentious issues, even those of a confidential nature; is provided with up-to-date information about the Trust's clinical and financial results, as well as many other matters. The Patients' Council represents the interests of patients, influencing the decisions of the Trust from a patient's perspective, working to improve the whole patient experience and, ultimately, patient satisfaction.