Patient Participation Group

The Patient Participation Group (PPG) comprises the Practice Manager and patients with a broad range of life and work experiences, reflecting many of the diverse needs of the Practice. We aim to develop a positive and constructive relationship between patients, the Practice and the community it serves.

By developing and improving communications between patients and the Practice, the Group provides an avenue for patients’ input into the way facilities and services are planned and executed and to influence those services to better support patient needs. For example, by working with the Practice to ensure that the needs of the diverse range of patients are included.

We provide constructive feedback on patient and community needs, concerns and interests, and support by collecting patient opinions and experiences to help the practice to evaluate its services. The Group has also organised educational events for patients, helped with surveys of patients' satisfaction and raised funds for additional equipment for the Practice.

In addition, the PPG provides appropriate input into local practice networks and the local Primary Care Network of practices to share and develop best practice and/or resources.

The Group meets quarterly, and holds an Annual General Meeting, usually in October. Membership is for three years renewable. The Chair is currently John Harris who has many years’ experience working within the NHS. Our Secretary is Mike Gaskell, an experienced project manager with considerable experience of working with Government departments and our Communications lead is Graham Wiffen who has worked in public and media relations as well as fund raising within the Arts sector. The Practice Manager is occasionally joined at meetings by GP representatives.

The current PPG members are keen for other patients to join so that it continues to be a voice for the full range of patient needs. All registered patients are welcome to join the PPG but, to be effective in making decisions, membership of the Core Group is limited to twelve. Specialist sub-groups may be formed to deal with specific topics using individual skills and interests.

If you are interested, then please contact John Harris, Chairman on 01732 461744 or sign up for the Patient Group using our online form