Involvement FAQs

What is a Service User?

Anyone that is a patient/client or a user of Health & Social Care Services.

What is a Carer?

A carer provides a substantial amount of care on a regular basis to a family member, friend or neighbour who has any illness or disability or is frail due to being older; and who could not manage without help.

What does PPI / User Involvement mean?

Personal and Public Involvement  (PPI ) often described as User Involvement is about making your voice heard, and using your recent experience of Health and Social Care services to help shape and improve new, existing and future services provided by the Trust.

What is lived experience?

We all have our own personal experiences of using healthcare services. This is because we each have different health needs and receive different types of care. This is called ‘lived experience’ as it is knowledge gained through experiencing something rather than being taught about it.

What can I expect when I get involved?

• A named contact person within the Trust that you can contact for support or with any queries
• Clear information about your chosen area of involvement and clear remit of your responsibilities
• To be reimbursed for any out-of-pocket expenses
• To be able to step-down or change your mind about getting involved at any time
• A safe and comfortable environment that allows people to talk and work together

Will I be able to claim out of pocket expenses?

Yes. Service users, carers and stakeholders who have agreed to become involved and participate in our involvement opportunities, such as meetings, engagement events, focus groups and training events can be reimbursed for out of pocket expenses.  This includes travel costs and the payment of replacement care.

Are there any resources to help me get involved?

Yes, there are a range of resources available to help you get involved. Service users and carers receive an induction session and there is an e-learning training programme in place to help understand what PPI is, and how getting involved will make a difference to Health and Social Care.