The First Community Network, launched in November 2021, gives members of the public the opportunity to have an input into the way community health services are developed and improved, and gives them a choice of how they’d like to be involved.
To achieve its aim of delivering community-based healthcare that suits the needs of its patients, First Community listens to the voices, views, and opinions of those in the community it serves.
Volunteers have a choice of how they’d like to be involved which may include taking part in surveys, joining focus groups or telling their story to help transform and improve local community healthcare services.
Different people join the Network for a variety of reasons and with varied interests, and First Community has lots of exciting initiatives for volunteers to get involved with which may include reviewing policies, guidelines and patient leaflets and involvement in specific projects such as reducing the risk of inpatient falls at Caterham Dene Hospital.
With a well-established group of over 15 volunteers there has been lots of positive feedback received from Network members. One volunteer said, “Being part of the First Community Network is not a huge time commitment for me and I have found my engagement with the team to be truly rewarding.
“I believe that my input and experiences along with the expertise from healthcare professionals will provide better results for patients.
“If I was to tell a friend about my experience I would say - don't be afraid of not being able to contribute, as every voice is listened to and considered, and can make a difference to the way community healthcare is delivered.”
If you’re interested in joining the First Community Network, please contact us and let us know your preferred method of involvement or any specific interests you may have.
- Email: fchc.beinvolvedfirstcommunity@nhs.net
- Tel: 01737 775450
- Text: 07841 639034
Stephanie Teatherton, First Community Quality Improvement Lead said, “By joining the First Community Network you can really help to shape the future of community health services in east Surrey and parts of West Sussex and influence the organisations approach to developing new ways of delivering healthcare.
“We’ve had a great response from Network volunteers so far, and it’s been wonderful to gather their insights, views and experiences across a range of projects to help shape our services.
“As a result of the input received from volunteers involved in reviewing the risks of inpatient falls, First Community has now created a working group for new aid call devices and training is being delivered to staff. Following the Covid-19 pandemic, falls education sessions have also been reinstated with updated information and advice available for patients during their exercise classes.
“I hope you enjoy watching our short animation below which provides an overview of the network along with positive feedback from one of our volunteers.”