9. Accountability and resources
Whichever model is adopted in the new NHS frame work there would be a requirement for independence, and for the SRG / Citizens Engagement Forum / CHC (not WAG) to provide an annual report on its progress in engaging with citizens and its impact upon LHB priorities, policy and service provision within the national framework. One suggestion is that it should be included in the annual report of each LHB and the Public Health Wales NHS Trust.
One of the reasons for the CHCs patchy achievement in citizen engagement is the lack of resources. If the reformed NHS in Wales is to empower citizens to be involved in influencing health (and social care and public health) policies then both cultural change and additional resources will be required.
In their absence there is a high risk that none of the models will achieve effective citizen engagement, with the current imbalance of power remaining with the providers of Welsh services and the professions. The latter already receive resources from the public purse for their professional advisory committee structures and National Advisory Forum. However, it is noted that the WCVA Health and Social Care Network is proposed as a future national reference group, yet they do not receive any public financial support. This anomaly requires attention.
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