As a not-for-profit partner of the NHS, it is imperative that patients and carers’ voices are reflected throughout our work, to ensure that how we measure and improve our healthcare services meets their needs. Central to this commitment is our Service User Network (SUN), an advisory group of patients, parents, carers and others.
We welcome all people with lived experiences as patients or carers. Participation is flexible, so members can take part as and when they like. You simply sign up, and opportunities are shared via a regular newsletter, so you can register your interest in particular areas of work. On occasion, specific opportunities may be forwarded to specific members, where they have indicated a particular area of interest. Importantly, no commitment is required once you sign up.
Healthcare services are stronger and more effective when they are shaped by the people who use them” Aurora, HQIP patient representative
What is involved?
Activities are varied, and range from supporting the commissioning of our programmes through to reviewing and co-producing resources such as guidance and reports. In practice, this can involve:
- Responding to online questionnaires
- One-to-one conversations
- Participation in meetings and events, mostly online
- Taking part in focus groups and panel discussions
- Judging national awards.
Participation is completely flexible, and you will only be asked to take part in what you are comfortable with. Find out more about what our Service User Network (SUN) members have to say about being involved, by reading these insightful articles:
How do I get involved?
Simply complete this short online form. We will then send you newsletters and updates every few months, outlining the latest opportunities for involvement, and you can get touch if you are interested. You are not committed, even if you register your interest – we will provide more information about what is involved – and you can withdraw (from a particular opportunity or the network as a whole) at any point. All information provided will remain confidential, unless a request is made eg to attend an event, and will only be used for the purpose of sharing relevant updates with you.
Will I be paid for my involvement?
Where possible, we seek to remunerate participants for their involvement. We normally apply an activity-based payment; relevant details for each activity will be shared as opportunities are discussed. HQIP has co-produced a policy to support our patient advocates, including members of our Service User Network (SUN), and this document outlines includes payment for involvement fees as well as procedures, expectations and other key things you can expect when working with HQIP.
Contact HQIP
You can contact HQIP at any time using our online form, however, Service User Network (SUN) members – past, present or prospective – may wish to make contact by emailing ppie@hqip.org.uk direct.
