Supporting local PPGs
There are a number of ways that PCTs can support the work of PPGs in their area, and help to create the right environment for more to be set up.
PPGs within a local area may all separately be having a real, positive impact for their local practice and its patients. However they may all be working in isolation from each other, and missing the opportunity to share ideas and undertake joint initiatives for greater impact.
The PCT is ideally placed to bring all the PPGs together as part of a larger community, and to foster sharing of ideas, information and best practice. This can be done through a dedicated PPG information page on the PCT website, or the development of a newsletter providing regular updates on the activities of different groups, and a platform for PPGs to ask questions and request advice.
For practices thinking about setting up a PPG, or new groups that are still finding their feet, the best people they can learn from are members of established and successful groups. The PCT can play an important role in facilitating communication between groups, matching them according to their individual needs and areas of expertise.
If you are working with local practices that don’t yet have a PPG and need help getting started, the Growing Patient Participation campaign’s step-by-step guide to setting up a patient participation group is the ideal tool. It is also worth taking a look at the document 21 ways to help your practice thrive, if you need help in convincing a practice of the value of setting up a PPG.
Gaining value for the PCT
PPGs are making real, positive changes to the health and well-being of local populations, by working with their practice to develop and change services to best meet the needs of the community. They can also be a valuable sounding board for the PCT, to test existing plans but also to gain wider input on the patient perspective.
For more information on how PCT can, and are already supporting the work of PPGs, download our guidance document Patient Participation Groups - a natural route to world-class engagement