Developing user involvement and consultation

In the NHS there is a major emphasis on user involvement in health and social care policy and practice. The NHS Plan and Shifting the balance of power set out a vision of an NHS in which patients have more of a say about how health care is provided in their communities.

Section 11 of the Health and Social Care Act 2001 places a statutory duty on NHS trusts, Primary Care Trusts (PCTs) and Strategic Health Authorities (SHAs) to make arrangements to involve and consult clients and the public in service planning and operation.

Consultation with refugee women and their communities can be particularly valuable and can provide opportunities to:

• Explore beliefs and understandings about health issues
• Raise awareness about women’s health issues
• Understand barriers experienced
• Reflect on current policies and procedures
• Empower the community and increase the capacity for advocacy
• Develop community activities that promote awareness
• Develop the cultural competence and communication skills of health providers.

The involvement of refugees in health promotion area of this website provides more information on working together with members of refugee communities.