Frequently asked questions
1. How can I recruit more members?
There are a number of ways to attract new members to your PPG beyond simply putting up posters or leaving leaflets in the practice waiting room. This could include holding an open evening or event where prospective members can find out about what the group does and how it works; targeting individuals to invite to become part of the group; and publicising the group and calling for members through local media.
If you’re trying to recruit a certain demographic, for example more young mums, why not try approaching relevant local community groups, such as mother and toddler groups or a National Childbirth Trust group?
2. I’d like to promote some of the work we’ve been doing – what is the best way to do this?
Regularly showcasing the work of the PPG to practice staff and the wider patient population is important in demonstrating its value and attracting interest from prospective new members. Equally, it can be a good way of ensuring the PCT is aware of the work being done and inspiring those in neighbouring practices to set up a group. Popular options for highlighting PPG successes include featuring updates and case studies of your work on the practice website, displaying photos of a recent event on the surgery notice board, or even holding regular PPG ‘surgeries’ in the practice waiting room to give patients the opportunity to informally ask questions and find out more about their PPG.
3. We’ve recently had some members dropping out of the group. Do you have any tips for retaining members?
It’s inevitable that from time to time you will have some members dropping out, however it’s worth getting feedback on the reasons to help you to retain members. Some simple things to consider a
- Does the group meet at a convenient time? Could you alternate timings to please all members, old and young?
- If people are finding the time commitment difficult, you could consider increasing the number of members, so that members feel less pressure to attend every meeting
- How often do you meet? Consider whether you could meet less frequently, communicating by phone or email in-between meetings?
- Are all members getting an equal opportunity to share their views? It is important that no members within the PPG dominate the discussion. A good way to ensure balance is to regularly rotate the chair of the group and to work to clear ground rulse.
4. What’s the best way of keeping discussions ‘fresh’?
If you feel the group is running out of steam or lacking inspiration, a simple change of scenery may be the answer. Why not consider meeting over a drink at the local pub, or taking turns to host a meeting in each other’s houses instead of at the surgery? The fresh environment might spark new ideas! Similarly, changing the format of the meetings, or asking a new member to chair for one session could help put a fresh perspective on discussions.
If some members feel nervous at airing their views, why not consider introducing an anonymous questions box where members can suggest agenda items for next time?
5. Where can I get ideas on new initiatives that have worked for other PPGs?
The case studies section of this website includes examples of successes from groups across the country. You could also consider contacting other practices in the area who are running PPGs. They may be able to offer some suggestions on activities that they have successfully run.
Examples of the work of existing PPGs include:
- Establishing schemes to help transport less mobile patients to and from the practice
- Helping to introduce non-clinical services such as counselling or bereavement support
- Supporting provision of information services on general health and well-being, as well as wider issues impacting the local community
- Working with the practice to set up health education initiatives such as ‘waist management’ events
- Improving the waiting room environment
- Helping in fundraising for purchase of additional medical equipment to expand services offered by the practice, or undertaking improvements to the practice environment
- Undertaking monitoring of services and feeding back to the practice
- Publicising services available through local media, to inform the local community
6. We have had an idea for an initiative to run locally, but don’t have funding to set it up. Can we get help with this?
Yes. The Making a Difference fund has been launched by the Growing Patient Participation campaign, to support initiatives undertaken by Patient Participation Groups (PPGs).
A total of £20,000 is available, and PPGs can bid for up to £4,000 to fund a new initiative or support the continuation of valuable existing activities. All bids will be judged by a panel including the National Association for Patient Participation, PCT, PPG, GP and Practice Manager representatives. All types and sizes of initiative will be considered, however the successful bids must demonstrate that they are achievable, will respond to local patient needs, and will have a real impact on the health and well-being of the local population.
Awards will be made in two rounds. The deadline for application for the first round is 23rd November 2009. Awards will be made to successful bidders in December. The deadline for applications for the second round is 12th January 2010 and awards will be made in February.
PPGs can apply by email or in writing. Download the application form here
7. Some PPGs have constitutions. Where can we view examples for some inspiration?
The NAPP website provides some example constitutions, available here