The NHS working with people and communities

Participation can be used to describe various forms of activity that enable people and communities to interact with services in ways that influence service planning and delivery. It can include formal consultation focused on specific issues as well as informal interactions with no fixed agenda, and a range of other activities.

At best, it leads to a situation where people’s voices are heard and listened to, enabling them to have a visible impact. Importantly, people will know that they have been listened to and that their views are valued.

These examples, taken from Healthwatch across the country, demonstrate the different ways people can participate with health and care providers, and the benefits both to the people themselves and to services.