Join our new Community Participation Group
We’re inviting people from all walks of life to apply to join our new Community Participation Group (CPG). This is an opportunity to work alongside NHS colleagues to make sure the lived experiences and needs of patients, carers and communities are central to the care we provide.
The group is being set up by Bristol NHS Group, a partnership between North Bristol NHS Trust (NBT) and University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust (UHBW). Together, we’re working to deliver seamless, high-quality, equitable and sustainable care for every person across Bristol, Weston, South Gloucestershire, and the wider South West.
What is the Community Participation Group?
The group will be made up of patient, carers and community representatives who will meet regularly to give honest and helpful feedback on how services are planned, changed and delivered. It’s a chance to share your perspective and help ensure NHS decisions are shaped by the people who use them.
What will I do as a member?
As part of the CPG, you’ll:
• Offer honest and helpful feedback to ensure Bristol NHS Group focuses on what matters most to the people and communities we serve.
• Attend meetings regularly and review documents in advance so you can actively contribute thoughts, questions and ideas.
• Bring your own experience and/or the views of the communities you support to represent the needs of a wider group of patients or carers (not just your personal views).
• Make links with other key people and groups in your community so we can hear a diverse range of views.
• Help review information that will be available to patients to ensure it is clear, inclusive and patient-friendly.
You’ll receive training, clear and accessible information before each meeting, and a dedicated contact for support. Participation in this role is voluntary and will be reimbursed for your time and travel expenses.
Who can apply?
We’re looking for people that are passionate, enthusiastic and care about your local health care services.
You don’t need to have NHS experience or formal qualifications. What matters is your lived experience and your interest in improving care.
We particularly welcome voices from:
- People who have used hospital services in the last five years.
- Carers and family members.
- People from racially minoritised or global majority communities.
- LGBTQ+ people.
- People living with a disability.
- People of all ages, including young and older adults.
- Community representatives.
If you care about the NHS and want to make a difference, this is a great chance to get involved.
How to Apply
Applications are now closed.
Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise (VCSE) Organisation
If you are a VCSE Organisation or a VCSE Alliance ambassador, please register your interest by contacting Spencer Blackwell: spencer@bnssgvcsealliance.org
Learn more about the VCSE Alliance on their website: https://bnssghealthertogether.org.uk/voluntary-community-and-social-enterprise-vcse/vcse-alliance
Additional Information
Please note there are a limited number of spaces available on the Community Participation Group. However, we do have other opportunities for you to get involved including various volunteer roles (including expert by experience opportunities) across hospitals in Bristol and Weston.
• Bristol City Centre Hospitals
• Weston General Hospital
• Southmead Hospital