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ANNEX 1A - ROLE OF LOCAL HEALTH COUNCILS

1. Health Councils are independent bodies established by statute in 1974 to represent the public interest in the NHS.

2. The main duties of the Health Council are:

· the provision of advice and information about the NHS

· assisting with complaints about the NHS

· monitoring health care premises and services

· consulting the public on proposed changes to health services.


THE ROLE OF LOCAL HEALTH COUNCILS IN THE COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE

3. For some people the complaints procedure can prove to be a difficult and complex process which can last for several months. If a person feels unable to deal with the complaint alone the Health Council can offer a wide range of assistance and support at any stage of the complaints procedure. This assistance may take the form of:

· information on the procedure and advice on how to make a complaint;

· help in accessing medical records;

· clarifying the substance of the complaint and drafting letters;

· making telephone calls;

· support in preparing for meetings;

· support at meetings and independent reviews;

· referral to other agencies, for example advocacy services, where appropriate;

· preparation of request for an independent review; and

· preparation of a complaint to the Health Service Ombudsman or the Mental Welfare Commission if appropriate.

4. All advice, information and assistance with complaints is provided free of charge and is confidential.

 [Section 1] [Section 2] [Section 3] [Section 4] [Section 5]