8. Political and social legitimacy
In our discussion it was emphasised that the particular values of the SRG or Citizen's Engagement Forum could provide a much wider basis of support from citizens in their communities and lead to increased legitimacy and influence, especially if this is supported by new web 2 technologies. Another view was that local authorities had the legitimacy, independence and resources to effectively challenge LHBs, although some local authorities could be much better placed and inclined to do so than others.
In anticipation of the CHC Review paper there was discussion of whether CHCs might take on an extended role in terms of citizen engagement. The comment was made that at present there appeared to be a lack of consistency in the performance of CHCs across Wales as well as wider public recognition. They would need to focus on engaging a much wider group of citizens, including children and young people. There are examples of this kind of development in some CHCs, but it is patchy at present and unlikely to be made easier in the present financial situation. In any event, this needs again to be considered as part of a wider CE strategy, with each organisation playing to its strengths and contributing to the whole. The role of CHCs in relation to the Public Health Wales NHS Trust requires careful consideration in drafting appropriate CHC and Trust regulations.
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