Every patient’s voice matters
Working with people who use NHS services reminds us of what we are here to do. Together we can co-produce programmes and roll out innovations and improvements that achieve better outcomes for patients.
Involving patients, carers and communities – particularly the marginalised or seldom listened to – in our work is not only the right thing to do, it builds trust, demonstrates good governance, and helps to create a healthcare system that is safe, effective, patient-centred, timely, efficient and equal.
A national mandate, a local approach
Each of the 15 health innovation networks has a unique approach to involvement and co-production, as our approaches were developed through understanding different local circumstances, relationships and organisational models.
Health Innovation Network PPI Forum
The Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) Forum was created to unite PPI leads and their patient representatives from across the Health Innovation Network, providing them with a platform to share, learn and coordinate activity.
The forum group meets at least three times per year and the role of chairing and providing the secretariat has been rotated since its creation. The group is co-chaired by a patient representative and members include AHSN staff.
Our 2021-2023 involvement and co-production strategy
In 2020/2021, we reviewed activity across the network to propose a more focused approach to involvement and co-production of innovation. We developed a new strategy with priorities that include:
- Strengthen and share decision-making and governance
- Recruit a head of involvement and co-production
- Partner with groups and individuals who represent marginalised voices
- Involve those with the greatest health and social need
- Evaluate the impact and share evidence of change.
Support for patients
If you use NHS services and want to understand more about the AHSNs and how we can work with you to improve and innovate, visit our support for patients page.
