We want our service users and carers to get the very best services. We can only do this by listening to you and working with you to make sure we deliver what you want. That’s why your voice is so important
Does it make a difference?
YES! You will work with other service users and carers to make sure we hear your views and ideas and that you can hold us to account. You can help us choose and train the staff you want to see working in our services. This is what others already involved in People Participation have to say about their experiences:
My advice would be to get involved. Get involved in making things better on your ward, get involved in the hospital. It makes time go faster and it makes things easier. I have been on interview panels, something I never thought I would do but it was brilliant. - Service user from the Forensic services
Through my involvement work I have learnt how to communicate, it’s as simple as that. In the past if someone disagreed or wasn’t listening I thought the answer was to shout. Through my involvement work I have learnt that if you respect people and put your point across people can listen.” - Service user from the Forensic services
Having been to one group, I felt a part of something that strived to create positive change. Restored my faith that there are people who genuinely care. – Carer from Mental Health Care for Older People
Before becoming involved with PPL, I felt isolated and had become more reclusive and that my voice was hidden. But wanted to be able to support and encourage others and wasn't sure how to or if I was ready to do so. Being involved with PPL has been a key turning point in my mental health journey of recovery. I finally found a safe place being empowered to express myself and be accepted without negative stigma. I feel PPL involvement is a brilliant way to break down negative stigma in people's attitude towards mental health and those who experience it. – Service user from City and Hackney
Who can get involved?
Service users who are currently using East London Foundation Trust services and carers who are caring for someone who is using the service.
To find out more about People Participation you can contact the team via elft.peopleparticipation@nhs.net.
You can contact your local or specific service dedicated People Participation Lead. Click on the drop down menus below for their contact details.
ELFT's Head of People Participation is Millie Smith. She can be contacted on millie.smith@nhs.net. or call 07557 172664.
ELFT's Director of People Participation is Paul Binfield. He can be contacted on paul.binfield@nhs.net or telephone 07944 015496.