Join new Bristol NHS Group’s Community Participation Group to help design and improve hospital services
The creation of this group reflects a commitment to listen, to learn and include.
Bristol NHS Group wants you to join a new Community Participation Group to help shape hospital services.
Bristol NHS Group - a partnership between North Bristol NHS Trust (NBT) and University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust (UHBW) is creating a new Community Participation Group to bring together local people with diverse experiences to work in partnership with NHS colleagues to help decide how services are designed and improved.
The group welcomes people with lived experience of using our services, carers and members of our diverse communities across Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire (BNSSG).
Group members will meet every two months, either online or in accessible venues. They'll review NHS service proposals, offer insight into how changes might affect different people and communities, and advise on how the NHS can better involve and engage the public in meaningful and inclusive ways.
No professional experience is needed. What matters is personal experience, insight, and a commitment and passion to helping improve hospital care.
People from all backgrounds are welcome to apply, and the group particularly welcomes applicants from communities that are often underrepresented in healthcare decision-making, including people with disabilities, carers, LGBTQ+ individuals, racially minoritised communities and people involved in grassroots or community-based support.
The insight gained from the CPG will play a key role in realising the ambition of NBT and UHBW's Joint Clinical Strategy vision of delivering seamless, high quality, equitable and sustainable care.
Ingrid Barker, Bristol NHS Group Chair, said:
"The creation of this group reflects a commitment to listen, to learn and to value the expertise of lived experience as we plan and deliver future health care.
"We know that when we work alongside people with lived experience as equal partners we make better decisions that are person-centred and more responsive to the needs of our communities.
"The Community Participation Group will ensure that community voices are embedded in how we plan care across our region."
Matthew Areskog, UHBW Head of Patient Experience, shared:
"This is a real opportunity to make a difference, we're not just asking for feedback - we're inviting people to work together with us in partnership. That means helping us think differently, ask better questions, and improve how we plan and deliver care."
Kerry Than, NBT Head of Patient Experience, added:
"Whether you're a patient, a carer, or someone who simply cares about local healthcare, your voice matters. We'll support you every step of the way and make sure your time is valued, including covering things like your travel and time so you can take part fully and comfortably."
Volunteers will be fully supported in the role, with a comprehensive induction, clear and accessible meeting materials, and reimbursement for reasonable expenses such as your time and travel.
Applications are now open and close at midnight on Sunday 6 July 2025. If you're interested, apply online via the NHS Trac website.
For further information, please visit the Community Participation Group section on the website.