Healthwatch Surrey

What will I be doing?

Our volunteer reading panel are home based, and work off their own laptop/PC by doing the following:

• prepare our Healthwatch Surrey reps for attendance at meetings by reading papers in advance and providing a summary; and to provide a lay/public perspective on communications materials - whether produced by us or by external organisations that have asked for our input.
• Look at quality accounts annually for each NHS trust before publication and feedback any changes that need to be made
• Review new and existing leaflets for NHS and other health and social care organisations

Some examples of what you would look out for are:

• Is the language used jargon-free and accessible?
• Does it make clear how any proposed changes will impact service users and their diverse needs?
• Is it clear how this will be communicated to communities including those under-represented?
• Do you have any suggestions on how to improve the materials?

How does this make a difference?

Healthwatch Surrey work closely with the Care Quality Commission, Surrey County Council, and those planning and delivering NHS services in Surrey to provide feedback from patients, escalate concerns and work to improve services based on the feedback our volunteers have listened to. W

This role will suit someone who:

• Is happy working from home.
• Is interested in health and social care
• Is organised and reliable

What time commitment will I be expected to make?

Literature is sent to us periodically - sometimes there is a lot at one time, other times there isn't much at all. There isn't an expectation for our reading panel volunteers to review everything, only those items that you can fit into your schedule.

What training will I need?

Online training in safeguarding and GDPR will be provided for this role, which can be taken at a convenient time for you. You will also receive ongoing support from our Volunteer and Engagement Officer, which may include briefings for specific projects.