The Speaker Peter Pinfield, modestly, did not tell us Healthwatch Worcestershire who has worked most effectively with the Care Quality Commission has won a national award that recognises the impact Healthwatch have made to health and social care in the past year, in Worcestershire.

He did, however, outline the work of this organisation, saying not many people know about Healthwatch, a nationwide, public funded health and social care services facilitating the opportunity for everyone to have a say, giving a local voice making everyone count whilst holding National Health Services to account. They gather views of the people who use the services, tell people where to go to find out about services, suggest to the providers how services can be improved from the patients or service users point of view.

It works by comments being put onto their database, looking for areas where improvement can be made for those experiencing problems. The research is passed onto the provider making recommendations how the services can be improved. Feedback on action taken is received and the report is published on the website and by newsletter. info@healthwatchworcestershire.co.uk or 01386 550 264.

Personal information is withheld unless permission is given.

Experiences where invited, healthy debate followed. The cuppa after, most welcome.

Queenhill WI meet the second Thursday in the month, the next meeting 13th October 2016, 2:30pm, WI Hall, Queenhill.

PEGGY BOOTH.