Group seeks community involvement in helping shape future of centre

Following their first meeting, the newly formed Friends of Chiswick Health Centre have published their first newsletter.

Their Mission Statement above encapsulates what they wish to achieve and they are confident that with positive and open communication with NHS Hounslow, they can put Chiswick Health Centre (CHC) in the forefront of their minds.

"CHC is a fantastic local Health Centre that would benefit greatly from improved and additional services for patients. We need to better understand NHS Hounslow’s future plans for CHC and be consulted on those plans," explains Paul Hopper.

"We have held our first Public Meeting, and would like to thank all of those who attended. There was a fantastic turn-out and this showed us, what a supportive community Chiswick has. We acknowledge that room size and sound quality could be better and will look into improving this.

"Simon Evans-Evans, Director of Corporate Affairs and Nick Worner, Head of Communications and Engagement represented NHS Hounslow at this first public meeting. Local residents put forward some very interesting questions. Unfortunately, Simon Evan Evans announced that they were unable to answer any questions or comment on matters of potential political significance during the lead up to the General Election. Whilst this was frustrating, we did minute all of the questions, and will endeavour to have these answered by Simon Evan Evans, as promised.

"It was clear from this first Public Meeting that ongoing dialogue with local residents and NHS Hounslow is paramount, and we hope to secure another public meeting with NHS Hounslow soon.

"In the meantime, a small number of Friends of Chiswick Health Centre will be meeting with NHS Hounslow to have your questions answered, establish the best form of communication and gain a better understanding of what the plans are for Chiswick Health centre, going forward."

At the meeting, the emerging issues were clearly:-

• The newly refurbished Treatment Room and its current restricted services.
• Important services that used to be provided within CHC that are now provided elsewhere.
• Patients are concerned about what the future holds for The Chiswick Health Centre.

This list is not exclusive or exhaustive. Issues and priorities may be subject to revision as the group gains in knowledge, experience and understanding.

How can you help?

The Friends urge residents to share their concerns and experiences and join the group as a member, to actively demonstrate that the group have the support of the local community. A strong membership sends a clear signal to both Hounslow Council and NHS Hounslow, that the community cares about the Health centre and will actively pursue ways to improve it.

"As a first step we would greatly appreciate your telling us about your recent experiences in getting health services which used to be provided at the health centre. Where did you have to go instead for your treatment? How did you get there? How long did this take? Any difficulties you experienced or inconveniences you faced?

"Please share you experiences with us or let us have your contact details if you are interested in staying in touch.

"As our Friends’ organisation has grown, so have our responsibilities and plans for the future.
Would you be willing to help in any of the following areas? (optional)

• Work on our newsletter? Help with Publicity/ Distribution
• Ideas and suggestion for effective lobbying?
• Communication and newsletters
• Build Business cases / Research Grant Applications

Send to: Friends of Chiswick Health Centre, Fishers Lane, Chiswick, W4 or hand to your GP/Dentist Practice Reception or put in FCHC box on community reception from 9am to 4.30pm

Or alternatively you can email your contact details and experiences on fchc@hotmail.co.uk

May 25, 2010